Political Quotes

“Mr. Chair, I rise in opposition to Amendment No. 273, offered by my colleague, Congressman King. This amendment's intent is to defund wage law requirements as established by the Davis-Bacon Act. Davis-Bacon doesn't just help the workers who build our country support their families; it also makes sure that taxpayers get their money's worth. The Davis-Bacon Act fosters competition based on quality, attracting workers who are more productive, more experienced, and well-trained. The Federal Government should not be the engine driving the ``race to the bottom'', and Davis-Bacon helps ensure that public projects do not facilitate low ball bids that undercut the American worker. Reports show that projects constructed with Davis-Bacon wage provisions are more likely to be completed on time, within budget, and with fewer future repair costs. Problems arise in projects when you have unskilled workers who are working at the lowest of wages and do not have benefits to support their families. Prevailing wage laws help ensure the best condition for workers, and employees respond by putting their best work forward, benefitting the community and the taxpayer. Elimination of the Davis-Bacon Act--which stabilizes wages, provides benefits to families, and promotes competition based on quality--would only foster an environment of low bidding, low wages, and poorer quality of work.”