Resolution directs study of a Delaware health‑care apprenticeship degree program

House Joint Resolution 13, introduced to the committee on June 30, would direct the Delaware Department of Labor to study development of a Health‑Care Apprenticeship Degree Program to address statewide health‑care workforce shortages.

The resolution calls for a study of program design and funding, including consideration of Delaware's federal transformational health‑care award and existing competitive awards from the Department of Health and Social Services, so the apprenticeship would complement current workforce initiatives.

Carling Ryan of the Delaware Health Care Association testified in support on behalf of hospitals and health systems, saying members already invest in work‑based experiences and urging the state to collaborate with the association and other stakeholders to ensure the program meets student and employer needs.

The committee did not take a formal vote on the resolution during this meeting; the measure directs further study and reporting by the Department of Labor.