The Merit Shop Advocacy Blog

A Summer to Remember

While the Capitol Building has been closed to the public for several months, the government affairs team has been working hard advocating on behalf of the construction industry. Utilizing email, phone, and virtual platforms, we continue to engage elected officials on behalf of our members. The COVID-19 pandemic certainly did not slow down activities of state government, in fact, the General Assembly has been in session more days and has been more active than in “normal” years. Here is a rundown of just a few of the happenings over the last month:

July 9, 2020

An Interesting and Unique Political Season

In typical years, June is an active month, as Legislators put the final touches on a state budget and other agreed-to bills before recessing for the summer. While the state budget was – at least temporarily – completed before June, this month was extremely active from a political and legislative perspective – and we are only at the midway point! Here is a recap of two major happenings:

June 10, 2020

Election Day is Here! Polls Open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Feeling a bit cooped up? Looking to get out of the house for an errand? If the answer is yes – and if you did not already vote by mail-in or absentee ballot – please take a few minutes to head to your local polling place to exercise your right to vote.

June 2, 2020

The Halfway Point

Despite the crisis, ABC Pennsylvania’s government affairs program has been active and has made a difference. We strengthened relationships with associations in sharing information, resources, and intelligence. Our grassroots advocacy network has grown by nearly 50 percent. We topped 1,100 calls and emails into the Governor and Legislature on issues of concern.

June 1, 2020

Fulfilling Your Civic Duty During COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought many changes to the way we conduct our daily lives – including voting. Pennsylvania’s primary election was moved to Tuesday, June 2. Polls will be in operation from 7 am to 8 pm and will be expected to adhere to all COVID-19 health and safety protocols.

May 21, 2020

Getting Back to Business – Advocacy Update

In these unparalleled times, your service and membership with the Associated Builders and Contractors is greatly appreciated. While our methods have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to

May 5, 2020

Important Resources for the Construction Industry’s Re-opening

BY: David G. Greineder, IOM, ABC PA Director of Government Affairs On Friday, May 1, employers in the construction industry, if they chose to do so, resumed work on construction

April 29, 2020

ABC Pennsylvania Applauds Passage of House Bill 2400

Contact: Dave Sload, President-CEO ABC Keystone 717-653-8106 dave@abckeystone.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 21, 2020 (MANHEIM, PA.) The Associated Builders and Contractors of Pennsylvania (ABC Pennsylvania) has been supportive

April 21, 2020

ABC PA Board Chairs Send Letter to Governor Wolf Asking Him to Reconsider His Intention to Veto Senate Bill 613

The Pennsylvania House and Senate passed legislation that would allow businesses to re-open that adhere to federal guidelines for social distancing and other health and safety protocols. The bill would

April 16, 2020

Advocating in Challenging Times

By: DAVID G. GREINEDER, IOM, ABC PA DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS First, thank you for your membership with ABC. I understand there are challenges facing every member and realize advocacy

April 1, 2020

ABC PA and 20 Construction, Consulting and Design Industries Join Forces in Request to Recognize Residential and Commercial Construction as a Life Sustaining Business

ABC PA joined forces with 20 construction, consulting, and design industries to ask the Governor to recognize residential and commercial construction as a life sustaining business. See the joint statement

March 25, 2020

Keeping You Informed on Legislative Matters that Affect Your Business