The new trust fund would support apprenticeship & training programs for in-demand trades, building up New Mexico's workforce

Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, the House of Representatives passed House Bill 5, which would create the Workforce Development and Apprenticeship Trust Fund, with a strong bipartisan vote of 63-5. 

The Workforce Development and Apprenticeship Trust Fund would support training and apprenticeship programs to train New Mexicans for good-paying jobs in in-demand trades. HB 5 appropriates $30 million from the general fund to the newly created trust to fund existing apprenticeship and training programs throughout the state.

"Increasing the technical skills and practical experience of our workforce is good for workers and for business," said lead sponsor Representative Joy Garratt (D-Albuquerque). "Investing in our registered apprenticeship programs is a vital part of developing our workforce pipeline. This fund will help us prepare for tomorrow's challenges and create family-supporting jobs for New Mexicans for decades to come."

The Workforce Development and Apprenticeship Trust Fund is one of several key investments proposed by House Democrats this session to build a skilled workforce, fill critical vacancies, and strengthen the state's economic outlook. Other significant workforce development investments include pre-apprenticeship programs to engage youth, loan repayment for medical professionals, scholarships for students in STEM, and practicums for social workers.

HB 5 is also sponsored by Representatives Christine Chandler (D-Los Alamos) and Kathleen Cates (D-Rio Rancho), Senate Majority Whip Michael Padilla (D-Albuquerque) and Senator Siah Correa Hemphill (D-Silver City). It now heads to the Senate.

The Roundhouse is open to the public for the 2024 session. Members of the public can also view floor sessions and committee meetings on the New Mexico Legislature's Webcasts tab, and provide comment via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.