Notwithstanding any order or regulation previously issued under chapter 289 of the general laws of 1938, as amended, the director of labor and training may provide by regulation, after a public hearing at which any person may be heard, for the employment in the occupation at the wages lower than the wage rates applicable under this chapter for learners and apprentices as the director of labor and training finds appropriate to prevent curtailment of opportunities for employment, and to safeguard the wage rates applicable under this chapter. No employee shall be employed at wages fixed pursuant to this section except under special license issued under applicable regulation of the director of labor and training. After a learner or apprentice has been employed for ninety (90) days, he or she shall be paid the rate provided in § 28-12-3, notwithstanding any order or administrative regulation previously issued under chapter 289 of the general laws of 1938.