ABC works to ensure that the merit-shop philosophy is represented at all levels of government. To help keep members informed as to what issues are affecting them, below is a list of bills, regulations and other regulatory measures affecting the construction industry. Click on the topic for more information.
ABC Massachusetts has built and continues to maintain strong relationships with leaders on Beacon Hill. In the upcoming 2013-2014 legislative session, we will continue to oppose policy initiatives that seek to stifle free and open competition when it comes to construction porjects. Likewise, we will support legislation and policies that will ensure a level playing field for both merit shop and union contractors.
We Support
Competitive Bidding
Construction projects best serve the public good when the bidding process allows for BOTH union and nonunion companies to submit bids. This ensures that all workers are treated equally; no one company having more of a right to work than another. Competitve bidding also brings down the cost of construction because more companies are allowed to participate in the process.
Professional Standards
ABC believes that all construction companies should deliver the highest levels of quality to their clients. We support the development of the construction workforce through training at all levels, from apprenticeship to professional development. Through a variety of local and national forums, ABC promotes best practices in construction and business. ABC established the Gould Construction Institute to provide ABC members and contractors throughout the industry with quality apprenticeship, craft and management training. The Gould Institute is a fully licensed and accredited private school.
We Oppose
We Support
The Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA)
Also known as the "Card Check Bill," this bill is currently before the United States Congress. Its intent is to completely abolish the secret ballot voting process by which all employees can independently vote to affiliate with a labor union or not. Click here to read an editorial on EFCA.
Project Labor Agreements (PLA's)
Project labor agreements requires that the the bids for construction projects be awarded to union only contractors and subcontractors who agree to:
- recognize unions as the representatives of their employees on that job
- exclusively use the union hiring hall to obtain workers
- obtain apprentices from union apprenticeship programs only
- pay into underfunded and mismanaged union benefit plans
- obey costly, restrictive and inefficient union work rules
ABC Position Papers
ABC Responsible Employer Ordinance (REO) Position Paper
Click here to download ABC's REO position paper.
Project Labor Agreements
Please click here to read our paper.
Notable Regulatory Changes and Policy Updates
NEW: ABC General Counsel Releases Legal Advisory on 'Prompt Pay' Law
Click HERE for more information.
Independent Contractor Law
ABC has worked with the Attorney General's office, along with our industry allies, to help foster greater clarity on the law to accompany active enforcement. The IC law is an issue that ABC takes seriously. For the Attorney General's Advisory Opinion, please click here
USCIS Revises I-9 Form
Please click here for more information.