Statement of Public Policy

(a)Skilled manpower constitutes a great resource on Guam. Registered apprenticeship programs, through supervised training and education, develop skilled journeyworkers and help meet the increasing needs for such workers in the traditional labor force. The continuing development of skilled manpower is essential for individual self-realization and for an expanding industrial economy. This Act recognizes that all citizens of Guam, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, or gender, are a potential aspect of a reliable workforce. Moreover, an individual’s physical and/or behavioral health challenge shall not prevent him or her from participating in programs authorized through this Chapter, as every attempt shall be made by the Guam Department of Labor to ensure that apprenticeship programs are supportive of COL 1/26/2024 CH. 10 APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS Title 17 GCA § 41210, relative to the employment of individuals with severe disabilities. To these ends, it is the declared public policy of Guam to develop sound apprenticeship training standards and to encourage industry and labor to institute training programs allowing all citizens of Guam the opportunity to work and earn a responsible wage to support themselves and their families.

(b)This Chapter shall apply to a person, firm, corporation, or craft only after such person, firm, corporation, or craft has voluntarily elected to conform with its provisions, for the purpose of participating in registered apprenticeship programs.