A bill is currently in the Senate, LB 447, that imposes burdensome apprenticeship requirements on redevelopment projects under the Community Development Act.  This legislation is a direct threat to nonunion contractors, restricting your ability to compete and driving up costs for taxpayers.

The bill imposes a requirement that at least 15% of total labor hours be performed by registered apprentices. These requirements favor union-affiliated programs, shutting out nonunion contractors who train workers through other high-quality craft training programs. It also requires contractors employing four or more workers to use at least one registered apprentice, and requires all contractors to abide by union apprentice-to-journeyman ratios. Additionally, it imposes prevailing wage on these projects. 

This legislation will only make it harder for merit shop contractors to compete, especially small businesses, reducing competition resulting in fewer bidders and higher taxpayer costs and increasing unnecessary red tape. All while doing nothing to actually encourage workforce development, instead trading an inclusive and industry-wide approach to labor needs for political favoritism and discriminatory governance.

Make your voice heard and click below to contact your Senator today! Tell them to oppose LB 447 and protect Nebraska construction workers and taxpayers.