Welcome to the ABC Utah Monthly Brief. Built to keep our members informed, prepared, and connected to what matters most in our industry.

JULY

NEWSLETTER

JULY 2026

ABC NATIONAL NEWS

"ABC appreciates the DOL’s decision to drop its defense of part of these regulations," said ABC's Kristen Swearingen. "However, there is much more to be done."

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GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE UPDATE

ABC representatives will attend the upcoming Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., where Board Members will meet directly with legislators. Members with legislative concerns or topics for discussion are encouraged to reach out to Craig Madsen.

The committee discussed several key industry issues, including workforce challenges related to the growth of data centers and the impact on skilled labor availability, particularly among electricians. Ongoing discussions are taking place regarding the long-term effects on Utah's construction industry.

Updates were also provided on HB 396, which addresses workforce compliance requirements on government-funded projects. DOPL intends to focus on education and compliance assistance rather than punitive enforcement as the program is implemented.

The committee continues to monitor the implementation of HB 508 and ongoing discussions surrounding bonding requirements for state-owned projects. A Builders Committee has been formed to gather industry feedback and explore ways to protect subcontractors and suppliers on projects that may not require bonding. ABC is advocating for clear protections, contractor qualification standards, and long-term solutions, including potential legislation in 2027 to address funding and risk concerns.

Members are encouraged to provide feedback regarding protections for subcontractors and suppliers, contractor qualification requirements, and criteria that should be considered when determining which projects may be exempt from bonding requirements.

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SAFETY COMMITTEE UPDATE

The Safety Committee discussed a recent near miss involving a scissor lift and gantry crane, reinforcing the importance of following Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, maintaining situational awareness, and controlling hazardous energy before work begins. Members also emphasized the value of reporting near misses and fostering a strong safety culture where employees feel comfortable speaking up and using Stop Work Authority.

The committee also reviewed June's safety training on OSHA Consultation and grant funding opportunities through the Utah Labor Commission and discussed future training topics, including mental health, reasonable suspicion, and equipment safety. Planning continues for the upcoming Safety Fair as the committee works to provide valuable safety resources and education for ABC members.

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MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE UPDATE

The Membership Committee met this month to discuss ways to increase contractor participation and strengthen member engagement. The committee also focused on membership recruitment and retention through personal outreach, improved communication, and maintaining accurate member information.

Additional discussion centered around expanding community involvement through volunteer opportunities and charitable partnerships, while also increasing awareness of the many benefits available to ABC members, including training, discount programs, and other valuable resources. The committee will continue working to improve communication, support fellow members, and promote the value of ABC throughout the industry.

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MONTHLY MEMBER HIGHLIGHT

Coates Electrical & Instrumentation (CE&I) provides electrical, communications, instrumentation, power, and control system services for a variety of industries, including oil and gas, manufacturing, mining, and commercial construction. Their team handles everything from new construction and upgrades to maintenance, shutdowns, and system startups. By working closely with each customer, CE&I delivers safe, reliable, and cost-effective solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of every project.

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NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

SCS MultiFamily

was founded with a commitment to delivering exceptional quality, consistency, and service. As specialists in countertops, they combine expert craftsmanship with dependable project execution to meet the unique needs of builders, property managers, and developers.

Whether it's a new build or a renovation, their team is dedicated to providing beautiful, durable countertop solutions and an outstanding customer experience from start to finish.

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Hunsaker Exteriors

is built on nearly a century of family craftsmanship. The Hunsaker family's expertise in stucco dates back to the 1920s, when Reuel Hunsaker founded one of Utah's premier plastering companies.

Founded by Garrick Hunsaker in 2006, Hunsaker Exteriors specializes in commercial exterior finishes, including stucco, EIFS, cement siding, cast stone, and thin brick. Today, the company is recognized as one of Utah's leading commercial exterior finish contractors.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Royal Family Kids Camp

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