As you know, the construction industry is always-changing, in good ways, in bad ways, and in ways we can’t even imagine. As a Union, LIUNA always tries to stay ahead of these changes, and even lead them.
One potential change we are monitoring involves our Davis-Bacon Wages. You may already know that Davis-Bacon Wages are the minimum, local prevailing wage—including benefits—paid to trade workers on federally-funded construction projects. These wages are determined by the US Department of Labor and often mirror the Union wage in an area. They do here in the Eastern Region.
While no official changes have been announced by the Trump administration, we’re hearing rumblings that our Davis-Bacon Wages could be on the chopping block.
This is sobering news.
Davis-Bacon Wages have been on the books since 1931 and, should they be eliminated or replaced, the entire construction industry would be destabilized. Paychecks could be cut by as much as 51 percent, and careers would be ruined.
Let me be clear, nothing has yet been announced or decided, but we aren’t going to wait for things to be decided that could negatively impact our livelihoods. You’ll be hearing more from me, and from your Union, in the coming weeks.
For now, keep an eye out for our communications on Davis-Bacon Wages; get informed on the subject so that you can talk to friends, family, and co-workers; and get ready for a campaign to get our message across to decision makers: hands off our paychecks, protect our industry and our jobs, and save Davis-Bacon Wages.
As always, I’m grateful for your contributions, Brothers and Sisters. If you could let me know you received this message and are ready to fight by responding #ProtectOurPay in the comments.
Michael E. Hellstrom
Vice President and Eastern Regional Manager