Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) said, “This is a win-win-win for Westchester County. When the county builds, this law will ensure we are also building opportunity for residents, raising construction standards, and making sure our public dollars reflect our values. Apprenticeship programs have a proven track record of creating economic opportunities. We are proud to put that record to work for Westchester. I am grateful to our labor partners and my colleagues whose commitment made this possible.”

Legislator Colin D. Smith (D–Cortlandt, Peekskill, Yorktown), chair of the Board’s Legislation Committee, said the bill is about building Westchester “the right way—by investing not only in projects, but in people. Legislation like this sends a clear message that when this County spends public dollars on construction, we expect those dollars to create real opportunity for our residents. It is a smart workforce development measure and a strong statement that Westchester values quality, accountability, and fairness.”

Legislator Jenn Puja (D–White Plains, Scarsdale, West Harrison), chair of the Board’s Labor Committee, said, “Westchester puts workers first. This apprenticeship bill reflects years of advocacy and partnership. I’ve seen firsthand how apprenticeships open doors to good-paying union jobs and strengthen our workforce. Thank you to our labor partners and legislative colleagues whose dedication and persistence made this reality.”