The House of Delegates has given preliminary approval to legislation that seeks to ensure neutrality in labor agreements for public infrastructure and transportation construction projects. Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports that under the bill, contractors could not be discriminated against for refusing to enter into such agreements, but also not prohibited from doing so.
Bill supporters want to prevent requirements for mandatory labor union agreements to qualify for jobs. They also believe the bill would save money because such mandates can drive up costs. But several delegates offered amendments. Charlottesville Delegate David Toscano said his revision would clear up ambiguous language—so that the state did not violate the Virginia and federal constitutions by impairing existing contracts.
“The way this bill is structured, it allows various contractors not to adhere to obligations they’ve already signed. This makes clear that Virginia is going to stand by its constitution and the United States constitution,” said Toscano.
The bill’s sponsor, Fairfax Delegate Barbara Comstock, persuaded the House that the amendments were not necessary.
“The intent of the bill and the structure of the bill is that it is neutral. And it is for dealing with not having a mandate where you’re forced into a project labor agreement on the front end of it. So again, I urge rejection of the amendment,” said Comstock.
The bill and a similar Senate measure are scheduled for final votes on Tuesday, 1/31/12.
–Anne Marie Morgan
Virginia Public Radio 