Infrastructure Investment, Composite Plans among Federal Policy Priorities
Washington, DC – Today the Construction Employers of America launched its first National Issues Conference, bringing CEA members from around the country to Washington to engage with policymakers on a host of federal issues. The three-day event includes briefings from federal policy experts, conversations with elected officials, and meetings between CEA members and congressional offices to educate lawmakers on issues impacting signatory specialty construction firms and their employees.
“The Construction Employers of America continues to grow in membership and influence,” said Jack Jacobson, spokesperson for CEA. “Given the recent changes in Washington and active legislation that could include rewriting the tax code and the largest infrastructure investment in a generation, our members are eager to come to Washington and engage with federal elected officials and Trump Administration staff.”
CEA is seeking congressional action to authorize voluntary multiemployer composite retirement plans that will reduce risk for contributing employers but still provide safe and comfortable lifetime retirement benefits for employees. CEA members will also support swift action on national infrastructure investment legislation that will fund vital projects and could streamline the permitting process. Another priority for CEA members is protecting local workers and local economies by ensuring federal projects comply with Davis-Bacon regional prevailing wage rules.
“CEA’s agenda in Washington is simple: support policies that promote responsible contracting and employment practices,” continued Jacobson. “The legislative and regulatory policies sought by CEA and our member companies will grow the national economy and create quality middle-class blue collar jobs from South Carolina to Seattle.”
CEA’s other federal policy priorities include addressing worker misclassification through IRS enforcement, allowing the use of project labor agreements when beneficial to both the taxpayer and the specialty construction firm, and supporting new energy investments. The National Issues Conference is supported by CEA members FCA International, Mechanical Contractors Association of America, Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors National Association, and The Association of Union Constructors.
CEA’s seven employer associations include FCA International, International Council of Employers of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, Mechanical Contractors Association of America, National Electrical Contractors Association, Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors National Association, Signatory Wall and Ceiling Contractors Alliance, and The Association of Union Constructors. Our impact on the American economy is significant. We represent over 15,000 employers and 1.4 million employees nationwide. More information about CEA and our issues can be found online at www.constructionemployersofamerica.com.
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