If a bill being considered by the Wisconsin State Assembly passes, union influence would be limited on bids for public projects, the Associated Press reported.
Under the measure, backed by Sen. Leah Vukmir and Rep. Rob Hutton, state and local governments would not be allowed to require that the contractors bidding on public works projects use unionized workers or enter into collective bargaining agreements (CBAs). CBAs are not widely required in Wisconsin, but some cities use them. These project labor agreements establish rules for the project at the outset, such as establishing work hours or requiring workers to join a union.
The bill aims to increase competition for public projects by allowing more companies into the bidding process and leveling the playing field for non-unionized companies. It could also make public works projects more affordable for taxpayers.
NFIB/WI, along with Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin, and Americans for Prosperity, support the proposal.
