Positions for apprenticeships; apprenticeship eligibility and employment.

(a) A host agency may convert existing positions into apprenticeships or create new, lower-grade positions for the purpose of establishing apprenticeships; provided, that nothing in this subchapter may be interpreted as requiring the creation of new positions. (b) (1) New hires and existing employees may be eligible to become apprentices; provided, that no agency may require an employee in an apprenticeable occupation hired before October 1, 2019 to become an apprentice. (2) Notwithstanding § 1-608.01(e)(7) , an apprentice shall be a resident of the District of Columbia. (3) An apprentice shall receive compensation, benefits, and collective bargaining rights consistent with the classification of the apprentice's position under this chapter . (4) Section 32-1410 , shall govern the resolution of disputes arising from terms in an apprenticeship agreement not covered by this chapter or a collective bargaining agreement.