On Dec. 19, 2016, the Employment and Training Administration issued a final rule updating the equal employment opportunity regulations that implement the National Apprenticeship Act of 1937 by amending 29 CFR Part 30. Current regulations prohibit discrimination in registered apprenticeship programs on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, and sex. The final rule updates the equal employment opportunity standards to include age (40 or older), genetic information, sexual orientation and disability among the protected base that cannot be discriminated against.

The final rule goes into effect on Jan. 18, 2017, however, many of the provisions have delayed effective dates. More information on implementation dates can be found on the compliance timetable. 

Additional Resources:

• Final Rule Text
• Compliance Timetable
• DOL Fact Sheet 
• DOL Website on Final Rule

• ABC submitted comments on the proposed rule on Jan. 20, 2016