Industry groups are applauding the U.S. Labor Dept.’s recent proposal to rescind a 2024 final regulation that makes it harder for businesses to classify workers as independent contractors under the Fair Labor Standards Act, which governs when minimum wage and overtime are required. ENR
Deaths by overdose and suicide in the construction industry have fallen, but more must be done to better support workers, according to a February 2026 report by North America’s Building Trades Unions and The Center for Construction Research and Training. ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Magazine
NECA NEWS
2026 Project Excellence Awards Open for Applications
The NECA Project Excellence Awards are now accepting submissions! This prestigious award program recognizes the outstanding electrical construction projects completed by NECA contractors across 13 categories. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your company’s reputation, celebrate your team’s hard work, and inspire the future of electrical construction. Projects must have been completed in 2025 to be eligible.
NECA is hosting an upcoming webinar on I-9 and Worksite Enforcement on Thursday, March 19 from 3:00–4:00 PM ET. Join attorneys from Klasko Immigration Law Partners as they break down the current enforcement landscape, recent policy changes, and practical strategies contractors can use to strengthen their I-9 compliance programs and prepare for potential worksite enforcement actions.
Energy and grid reliability dominated the conversation in Washington last month, with significant implications for NECA contractors. From the President’s call for grid modernization and nuclear expansion to congressional action on critical minerals and permitting reform, policymakers are signaling that infrastructure investment must accelerate. As electricity demand continues to grow nationwide, the focus on upgrading and expanding America’s grid is becoming increasingly practical and pressing.
NECA 303-2025 provides practical guidance for installing and maintaining modern video surveillance systems. The standard covers both analog and digital equipment, including cameras, control devices, power supplies, and video management systems, along with key considerations such as pre-installation planning, cabling, power, grounding, mounting, commissioning, and maintenance.
Designed for commercial and institutional projects, NECA 303 helps confidently integrate surveillance systems and ensure reliable, high-quality performance.
Through the UPS® Savings Program, NECA Members have access to exclusive discounts, reliable delivery, and enhanced shipping protection—all designed to help you save time and money. The results speak for themselves. In 2025, NECA members saved $203,469.21* on shipping!