The Merit Shop Spokesman Blog

Last month, we announced an increase in funding for the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry’s investigation unit, aimed at enhancing labor law enforcement. This boost in funding means the investigation unit will be more active in examining employer practices and enforcing fines, penalties, or legal actions where necessary.

On Monday, July 22, ABC National officially announced the endorsement of Donald J. Trump for President of the United States. Before the endorsement, ABC National staff was able to meet with both the campaign staff and Trump himself. We understand that this may cause some consternation or lead to questions.

We are at an interesting crossroads with our economy, and it’s curious to find that some companies are thriving and others are down on revenue against budget by 25% or more.

At the ABC convention in March, I was able to connect with various peers. It was interesting to hear that some of our subcontracting partners were down in revenue, which I found hard to believe. This was probably the biggest eye-opener for me

Recent reports on this blog highlight numerous instances of poor decision-making and regrettable actions by policymakers. Labor legislation across all government levels increasingly harms both the construction industry and taxpayers alike. Much of this legislation seems to create solutions for non-existent problems, driven by misconceptions from certain labor groups about our membership.

July is the month of celebration, and we all take time out of our busy schedules to celebrate July 4th. For many, this is just another Federal holiday in which we get time off work, have picnics, and enjoy entertainment in the form of concerts and fireworks. Do all American citizens and those wishing to become US citizens really know what July 4th represents?

ABC Keystone is thriving in 2024, benefiting both our members and the industry at large. As we near the midpoint of the year, let’s reflect on our accomplishments:

Over the past year, numerous articles have been fixated on the disappointing performance of our elected officials, and it’s time for a change. Politics have overshadowed policy matters, to the detriment of workers and taxpayers across all levels of government. Instead of productive governance, we often witness bitter partisan squabbling that paralyzes progress, and unfortunately, Pennsylvania is particularly notorious for this.

When Herman Wohlsen founded Wohlsen Construction Company in 1890, he embarked on a mission to construct exceptional projects that built strong relationships in the local community. Wohlsen quickly earned a reputation for a first-rate work ethic and remarkable attention to quality, and his legacy
continues with us 134 years later.

ABC Keystone has been advocating to the legislature for prevailing wage reform for decades. The prevailing wage statute, established in the early 1960s, has remained unchanged since its inception. Despite the significant increase in construction costs over the years, the threshold triggering prevailing wage for government-funded projects has remained stagnant at $25,000. Consequently, even minor repair and maintenance work now incur prevailing wage rates for the state, school districts, and municipalities

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Demystified: Balancing Risks and Rewards | June 2024

As the Board Chair this year, one of my primary goals was to foster more dialogue and resources around technology within our organization. I decided to kick off this initiative by addressing the elephant in the room: Artificial Intelligence (AI).