Washington, D.C. — In response to the nation's escalating labor shortages, particularly in critical infrastructure sectors, Representative Jake Ellzey (TX-6) will formally introduce the Apprenticeship Infrastructure Tax Credit Act of 2025 in the coming days. This landmark legislation offers a business-centered solution to America’s growing workforce challenges by incentivizing investments in registered apprenticeship programs.

Currently, the U.S. faces 7.2 million job openings, with critical sectors like construction, manufacturing, and energy grappling with significant workforce shortages. By investing in our Nation’s workforce, America will experience unprecedented economic growth and prosperity resulting in energy independence.

The “Apprenticeship Infrastructure Tax Credit Act of 2025” proposes a $3,000 annual tax credit to employers for hiring and retaining registered apprentices in key occupations critical to our nation’s infrastructure, with an enhanced credit of $6,000 for members of the national guard and reserve components of the Armed Forces, recently separated veterans, transitioning service members, and their spouses.

Businesses will be able to claim these credits for up to two years per apprentice retained, recognizing employers’ long-term investment in their workforce. A $5 billion volume cap over ten years ensures the program remains fiscally responsible while encouraging the expansion of registered apprenticeships.

“This bill is about rebuilding the American workforce from the ground up,” said Congressman Jake Ellzey. “We’ve got job openings in critical industries and a generation of hardworking Americans ready to step in—they just need the training and opportunity. By rewarding businesses that invest in apprenticeships, especially for our veterans and transitioning service members, we’re strengthening our infrastructure, supporting our communities, and preparing the next generation to lead.”

In conjunction with National Apprenticeship Day on April 30, 2025, the introduction of this legislation reinforces bipartisan efforts to strengthen America's skilled workforce. It also aligns with the President’s recent Executive Order on Preparing Americans for High-Paying, Skilled Trade Jobs of the Future, which emphasizes expanding access to registered apprenticeship programs as a critical component to equip American workers to produce world-class products and implement world-leading technologies. The legislation responds to Texas Governor Abbott’s February 2, 2025, announcement “Expanding Career Training as an Emergency Item,” addressing workforce challenges facing the state.