Sanford Bishop: “I am very disappointed that, instead of seeking to pass the most bipartisan bill possible, my colleagues would prefer to…”

“I am very disappointed that, instead of seeking to pass the most bipartisan bill possible, my colleagues would prefer to weigh down the bill that funds veterans and military construction with a divisive rider. PLAs can be an essential tool to allow large projects to be completed on time and on budget. They are a benefit to both employers and employees. A project labor agreement provides a single collective bargaining unit, which allows for easier management of a project. They provide a reliable and uninterrupted supply of workers. They provide uniform wages, uniform benefits, overtime pay. A PLA sets the terms and conditions of employment for all workers onsite, including the work conditions and the rules. In addition, a PLA prohibits strikes and work stoppages. It is insulting that some would seek to prevent the use of PLAs on this bill when it is one of the best tools available to guarantee that veterans are hired as skilled construction workers. The use of a PLA does not prevent nonunion small businesses from participating. They have to agree to the terms and to sign on to the PLA. In addition, the PLA does not make the project union only. Simply put, project labor agreements help both the government and the private sector increase the efficiency and the quality of its project by promoting a business model that employs a highly skilled workforce.…”