(a) With respect to the application for and issuance of vouchers, the provisions of this Article shall apply to voucher applications submitted after the effective date of these regulations and vouchers issued pursuant to such applications.

(b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), the provisions of this Article shall not apply to voucher applications, and vouchers issued pursuant thereto, for employees hired prior to July 1, 2000, which are based on an employee's eligibility for or receipt of services under the federal Job Training Partnership Act.