Pennsylvania Congressmen Lloyd Smucker

The chief executive officer of the Associated General Contractors of America, Stephen E. Sandherr, urged Congress to act quickly on the Workforce for an Expanding Economy Act that was introduced March 13 by Pennsylvania Congressman Lloyd Smucker. The measure would establish the only federal temporary visa program for construction, among other industries covered by the measure. The association is urging members of Congress to support the measure.

"The shortage of available, qualified, workers in many parts of the country threatens to undermine continued economic growth," Sandherr said, noting that 80 percent of construction firms reported last year they were having a hard time finding qualified workers to hire. He noted that the association has long advocated for a temporary worker visa system for the construction sector that allows for more workers during periods when labor is scarce, but lowers the number of visas during slower economic cycles.

"Creating a temporary, flexible, worker visa system will allow all types of economic development to proceed without costly delays caused by workforce shortages."

The association official added that the new legislative proposal will help reduce illegal immigration by creating a more viable path for qualified construction workers to enter the country when demand rises and leave when demand subsides. "This measure will help put an end to an immigration system that creates too many incentives for workers to illegally enter the country while also boosting economic growth."

For more information, visit www.agc.org.

Today's top stories

Eagle Bridge Co. Works On Final Leg of U.S. 35 Upgrade

Fay Preps Way for Pittsburgh International Airport Modernization Project

Volvo CE Continues to Perform, Transform During Slower Q1 2024

American Bridge Co. Leads Conn.'s East Haddam Swing Bridge Project

Pettibone Celebrates 75th Anniversary of Cary-Lift

Common Ground Alliance Hosts Conference & Expo in Colorado On Preventing Utility Damages

Going Beyond Diversity: Star Equipment's Rental Advantage

Volvo CE Launches Updated L30, L35 Compact Wheel Loaders