The month of May witnessed significant legislative actions impacting small business and clean energy tax credits, alongside tariff uncertainties and promising infrastructure reforms that could benefit electrical contractors nationwide.
🗞 Driving the news: The month of May witnessed significant legislative actions impacting small business and clean energy tax credits, alongside tariff uncertainties and promising infrastructure reforms that could benefit electrical contractors nationwide.
🤝 What NECA is doing: We continue to push for policies that boost jobs, ensure fair play, and streamline regulations in the electrical construction sector.
Let’s dive in!
One Big Beautiful Bill Passes House
The House of Representatives narrowly passed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," marking a significant win for NECA contractors and Speaker Mike Johnson.
Why it matters: This bill permanently extends key provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, impacting federal borrowing by $3.7–$3.8 trillion.
The bill includes Medicaid cuts and energy credit rollbacks, likely to face revisions in the Senate.
What's next: Senate Majority Leader John Thune leads a 4-week effort to pass a version acceptable to both chambers by President Trump's July 4th deadline.
What NECA is doing: The Government Affairs team will advocate for tax cut permanency and to support Clean Energy IRA provisions.
The Trump administration's tariff policies faced major legal challenges in May, causing business uncertainties. The U.S. Court of International Trade blocked "Liberation Day" tariffs, citing overreach in using emergency powers.
On May 29, the U.S. Court of Appeals temporarily reinstated most tariffs.
10% on all imports, 30% on Chinese goods, and 25% on certain products from Mexico and Canada.
Despite challenges, tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles remain.
On June 4, President Trump signed a proclamation imposing a 50% tariff on imported steel and aluminum, up from 25%.
The administration has pursued some diplomatic solutions:
90-day tariff suspension agreement with China.
Trade framework with the United Kingdom that reduces tariffs on British steel, aluminum, and automobiles,
Our though bubble: This could provide an alternative supply source for NECA members.
Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) introduced H.R. 3548, The Infrastructure Expansion Act this month to modernize liability laws on federally funded construction projects in New York.
This bill aims to save at least $2 billion in federal tax dollars over the next decade by aligning New York's laws with other states
Why it matters: NECA members in New York could see lower insurance premiums and project costs while keeping worker safety intact.
The legislation specifically applies to federal infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, and energy networks where NECA members perform essential work.
The Government Affairs Team applauds Rep. Langworthy for his leadership and looks forward to working toward the bill’s passage. Read NECA’s endorsement statement.
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Funding Fray
Legal challenges arise over the Trump administration's handling of Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funding for electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Why it matters: The Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that the administration's halt of funding under the $5 billion National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program violated the law.
California and 16 other states have filed a lawsuit challenging the Federal Highway Administration's actions to withhold these funds.
The GAO's ruling highlights tensions between administration policies and congressional appropriations.
Details: The bipartisan nature of the original infrastructure law complicates the administration's efforts to redirect funds.
The Trump administration has about $294 billion in IIJA funds to award, including $87.2 billion in competitive grants where agency staff decide the winners.
NECA NextGen Fly-In: The Future of Advocacy Starts Here!
Calling all emerging leaders!
NECA’s NextGen Fly-In is your chance to step into the spotlight and take your voice to Capitol Hill.
Join fellow rising professionals in Washington, D.C. for hands-on advocacy training, high-impact meetings with lawmakers, and a front-row seat to the legislative process that shapes our industry.
