Among the legislation ABC has fought this session is NH HB1641, which would have required federally determined wage and benefits and all the related administrative burdens on state funded construction projects. We strongly opposed the return of the "Mini Davis Bacon" Act in this state, which was repealed in 1984.  On February 11th the House voted to kill the bill by a vote of 181–138. ABC is obviously pleased with the legislators’ decision and the responsible consideration of the facts and impact the regulation would have on state funded projects, the contractors performing them and all NH taxpayers. 

The bill, as introduced, stated: "The minimum prevailing hourly rate of wages and benefits for any class of workers employed on a public works construction project subject to this chapter shall be the rate set forth by the most recent wage determination issued by the United States Department of Labor for the corresponding class of workers, for the New Hampshire county in which such public works construction project shall take place, as made available by the United States Department of Labor on the department's website or wherever the United States Department of Labor may make available such wage determination."   

Reminder, the US Department of Labor is conducting a survey of Building and Heavy Construction projects active and on-going between 4/1/14 and 3/31/15 in the state of New Hampshire.  Any project with a value of $2000 or more, public or private, is included. The date for data to be submitted has been extended to 3/18/16 (original due date was 2/5/16).

The electronic form is available at www.dol.gov/whd/programs/dbra/wd10/index.htm.  Hard copies may be obtained by contacting ABC. Please, if you would like assistance completing the forms contact ABC. Your Survey Information is Important and makes a Difference!

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ABC has scheduled an “Economic Summit” for Tuesday, May 24, 8:30-11AM, at the Grappone Conference Center, Concord NH. ABC National Economist, Anirban Basu will provide a forecast nationally as well as specific to our area, and provide information on factors that impact the construction industry economy. Also, Carmen Lorentz, the NH Director of Economic Development, will provide an overview, awareness and importance of the state strategic plan for economic growth and efforts to create a sustained economic development program. Mark your calendar and plan to attend this valuable event to receive information on the forecast for our region’s commercial / industrial construction activity and opportunities for your company to support sustained economic growth in our region.