 |
|
Week of November 23, 2015
|
Federal Transportation Bill Nearing Completion
After countless short term extensions of the legislation that establishes federal transportation programs and funding levels, the U.S. Congress is nearing completion of a multi-year version of the law. Over the past weeks, the House of Representatives has passed their version of the legislation (STRRA) and the Senate has passed its counterpart (DRIVE Act). Both bills provide for a six year authorization but at slightly differing funding levels. The bills are currently in conference committee where work is underway to forge a compromise bill that can be passed and signed by President Obama. The conference committee met formally for the first time this week. The meeting consisted primarily of opening statements and pledges to get the bill completed as quickly as possible. Staffs from both chambers have been meeting to iron out agreements on issues where there are general similarities. The existing short-term reauthorization expires November 30. A new extension was passed this week pushing the deadline to December 4.
Key questions remain about how to fund the package, at what levels and for how long. The Senate bill increases funding for highways and transit by about 3 percent per year over six years. The House bill provides current funding for six years with some growth allotted for inflation. Conferees are considering increasing funding above the Senate levels by using the revenue the House made available in its version of the bill by shortening the reauthorization period to cover five years rather than six.
Take Action:
AGC is encouraging conferees to provide the highest level of funding possible to address the huge backlog of transportation infrastructure needs that have grown over the years due to past inadequate funding. A pre-drafted letter is available for you to send on the website "Hardhats for Highways" (
http://hardhatsforhighways.org/
) The letter can be easily sent to your member of Congress and our Minnesota Senators with just a few easy clicks. AGC of Minnesota members are encouraged to use the tool to convey a unified message for Congress to complete action on the federal highway and transit legislation.
|
Prehire Testing Seminar
Prehire tests are sometimes used to aid in ensuring contractors are hiring qualified employees who are able to meet the physical demands of the job. These tests have become controversial, drawing attention from the EEOC and labor unions. On December 2, we will offer a two-hour session that will look at prehire testing and the potential for claims of discrimination and other legal implications. Details and registration are available here.
|
AGC's Holiday Reception and Silent Auction - Register ASAP
On Thursday, December 3, representatives from AGC member companies, ACEC, AWC, NAMC, MnDOT, and other industry-related organizations are invited to attend the AGC holiday reception at the Heartland Restaurant in downtown St. Paul. Event information, including how to become an event sponsor or donate an auction item, and registration information are available here. The deadline to register is Monday, November 23.
Once again, we will be collecting for Toys for Tots at the holiday reception. New toys, games, and books, as well as cash and checks, will be greatly appreciated
. Checks should be made out to "Toys for Tots." There will also be cash jars available at registration and on the bars. Checks can also be mailed in advance of the reception to Denise Woods at the AGC office.
|
Annual Business Meeting Notice - December 3
Notice is given to the voting members of ASSOCIATED GENERAL CONTRACTORS OF MINNESOTA, a Minnesota cooperative organization ("the Association"), that the December 2015 annual meeting of voting members will be held at the Heartland Restaurant, 289 Fifth Street East, St. Paul, Minnesota 55101, at 5:00 pm, on Thursday, December 3, 2015, for the following purposes:
- To approve the December 4, 2014 Annual Meeting Minutes.
- To ratify and approve the acts of the Association's Officers and Directors.
- To approve the Treasurer's Report.
- To elect Directors of the Association and receive the Nominating Committee's Report.
- To approve an Amendment to the Bylaws to provide for staggered terms for CLC directors; and
To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment(s) thereof.
The official Notice of the Annual Meeting and of Resolutions Amending the Bylaws is available for review here.
|
AGC - MnDOT Grading Forum
On December 8, AGC and MnDOT will host the annual all-day Transportation Construction and Grading Innovations Technology Forum. This forum offers contractors and MnDOT representatives from around the state an opportunity to hear from industry experts and discuss common current issues. Details and registration information are available here.
|
Data Theft Seminar
Data breaches - the theft, loss, or mistaken release of private information - are on the rise. And it's not just a big business problem. Identity thieves are increasingly targeting small- and mid-sized businesses, often because they have fewer data security resources. On December 15, join us for a discussion on data breach prevention tips and learn ways you can minimize your risk of becoming a victim of costly and time consuming cybercrime. Details are available here.
|
AGC Bookstore Monthly Featured Products -
Highway Safety and Hazmat Products
The AGC bookstore has a variety of Highway Safety and Occupational Safety manuals to help train employees on the safest methods of on-site safety. Take the guess work out of safety regulations and help your workforce be as prepared as possible. Easily navigate the government's complex standards and save yourself time while solving issues before they become problems.
These items are available during the month of November at a 15% discount using coupon code HAZ15.
|
525 Park Street, Suite 110
St. Paul, MN 55103
651-632-8929
|
|
|
|
|
|
