Last Thursday, the Senate HELP Committee held the hearing for Trump labor secretary nominee Eugene Scalia.

Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) asked Scalia about the administration’s rule on industry-recognized apprenticeship programs (IRAPs), noting concerns from labor unions on IRAPs safety requirements and portability of skills in construction. Scalia recognized the need to avoid undermining current successful apprenticeship programs and consider basic qualifications for programs but believes that more apprenticeships are better, expressing underlying support for the measures. During the hearing Scalia also faced criticism from Democrats over his record as a lobbyist and lawyer defending corporations against workers and regulators. The committee is scheduled to vote on Sept. 24 on whether to approve him for a final confirmation vote in the full Senate. The nomination is expected to pass along party lines.