SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Emil Jones III is the sponsor of a measure that would increase access to apprenticeship programs in the construction industry for African-Americans.

Jones’s legislation creates the Bureau on Apprenticeship Programs within the Illinois Department of Labor and creates an advisory board of 12 legislators (three from each caucus, appointed by the caucus leader). The goal of the commission is to increase minority participation in apprenticeship programs.

“Like in many other areas of society, minorities are underrepresented in apprenticeship programs,” Jones (D-Chicago) said. “Apprenticeships often provide a spring broad to good jobs, and we must ensure everyone has equal access to those opportunities.”

Illinois’ workforce stands at about 6 million, and there are about 16,000 active apprenticeships in the 13 basic crafts in the state's 102 counties.

The Senate approved Senate Bill 534. The bill moves to the House for consideration.