Since President Biden took office, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued an increased number of general duty clause violations due to COVID-19 concerns, more than three times the violations issued during the last administration. OSHA’s increased activity has contributed to the President’s budget recommendations for 2022. The proposed budget request, if accepted by Congress, would increase OSHA’s staff by 15% and allow them to focus more on enforcement. 

 

NECA’s Look Ahead: As the fiscal 2022 budget continues to evolve, NECA remains focused on advocating for our contractors. We will continue to monitor any budget legislation that is released and keep NECA contractors informed. 

As negotiations continue on the infrastructure package, the National Transportation Research Non-profit (TRIP) report was released on Tuesday. The report ranks state infrastructure by various factors and conditions, reinforcing concerns on the extent of deterioration across the nation.  

 

NECA’s Look Ahead: NECA hopes that Congress will be able to pass bipartisan infrastructure legislation to address the concerns raised in this report. We have been monitoring each proposal released by Congress and the Administration and look forward to reviewing the final negotiated bill text when it becomes available.

This week, NECA along with other industry leaders sent a letter to Congress in opposition of proposed legislation that changes the Section 199A pass-through deduction. Section 199A allows for a 20% tax deduction for qualified businesses. This proposed legislation would weaken Section 199A and phase out the deduction above certain income thresholds, primarily impacting small businesses.  

 

NECA’s Look Ahead: If any official legislation is introduced, NECA will continue to oppose its passage. We are joined in support of continued 199A deduction by many Members of Congress and the Biden Administration.

After four and a half years of service with NECA Government Affairs, Trevor Falk will be headed to North America’s Building Trades Union as their Energy Lobbyist. Although Trevor is leaving the NECA family, he has not left our industry. We are excited for him and this new opportunity and look forward to crossing paths as we continue to advocate for the unionized construction industry.