Help Protect Long Island School Construction
Understanding Bills S6172 and A756
Bills S6172 and A756 propose the implementation of Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) on school construction projects in Long Island school districts. While these bills may appear well-intentioned, they could have significant negative impacts on our community, schools, and the construction industry.
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What are Project Labor Agreements (PLAs)?
Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) are pre-hire collective bargaining agreements with labor unions that establish the terms and conditions of employment for a specific construction project. They typically require contractors to recognize unions as the representatives of their employees on that job, use the union hiring hall to obtain workers, and follow union rules on pensions, work conditions, and dispute resolution.
Potential Impacts of These Bills
Increased Costs
PLAs can increase construction costs by 12-18%, according to studies. This means less value for taxpayer dollars and fewer resources for educational programs.
Reduced Competition
PLAs can effectively exclude 87% of construction workers who choose not to join a union, reducing competition and limiting options for school districts.
Project Delays
The additional administrative requirements of PLAs can lead to project delays, causing disruptions to school operations and educational activities.
Local Business Impact
PLAs may disadvantage local contractors and workers who are not union-affiliated, affecting the local economy and employment opportunities.