Take Action on Important Issues Facing the Industry
News
August 28, 2023
The Legislature returned from its four-week summer break on Monday, August 14 to begin their final month of the 2023 session. By-and-large policy committee deadlines have passed and for virtually all bills that remain alive, they are either awaiting consideration on the floor in the second house or – for measures with fiscal impacts – are awaiting hearing in the Appropriations Committee.
UCON's Scholarship Program will be offering a fall season of awards this year. Up to $12,000 will be distrbuted. Applications will be accepted from Friday, September 15th - Thursday, October 16th. To be added to our mailing list, contact Denise Ramirez.
Recognizing Excellence, Awareness & Leadership in Safety
The safety awards program has been developed to highlight the importance of safety in our industry, as well as to honor some of the safest contractors in our association. Read more about the winning organizations in the July 2023 issue of the UCON magazine.
After much anticipation, The California Small Business and Nonprofit COVID-19 Relief Grant Program (to pay for COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave) is now taking applications. After significant advocacy from United Contractors, the State of California built and funded the program in the Budget Act of 2022 (AB-178) and authorized it through Assembly Bill 152 in September 2022.
The website for the program has been officially launched and is now taking applications.
United Contractors Scholarship Committee is proud to announce the 2023 UCON Scholarship Awards Program winners. A record of $60,000 total will be distributed to the following sixteen students, who are being recognized not only for their academic achievements but also for their contributions to the communities they plan to serve.
This year has proven to be one of the hottest ones on record. To protect yourself and your employees, make sure you have your Heat Illness Prevention Plan in place. Heat illness can result if precautions are not taken.
Hundreds of UCON members urged legislators to pass reform package
News
June 28, 2023
On June 26, California’s State Legislature agreed to advance Governor Newsom’s streamlining package that will accelerate delivery of transportation, water, and energy infrastructure projects, unlocking $180 billion in funds over the next decade.
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan Requirements
News
June 28, 2023
In a previous issue, we let you know that the new Construction General Permit will go into effect on September 1, 2023. Over the next couple of months, we are going to take a more in-depth look at the changes. The revised inspection requirements follow.
Is your off-road fleet ready for January 1, 2024, Off-road Diesel Regulation Requirements?
News
June 28, 2023
Amendments to CARB’s Off-road Diesel Regulation
As mentioned in a previous issue, the California Air Resources Board approved amendments to the Off-road Diesel Regulation. The amendments included new requirements which start on January 1, 2024.
Please visit UCON's Grassroots Advocacy Center to make your voice heard on these three important issues that directly impact union contractors.
❌ OPPOSE Proposed Lead standards revisions, which would present significant costs to contractors and invasive medical and privacy requirements for workers.
❌ OPPOSE SB 365, which would limit the rights of union contractors who collectively bargain.
On April 24, 2023, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation. This regulation transitions High Priority Fleets, those with 50 or more trucks or companies with $50 million in revenue with one truck, to zero-emission trucks by 2045. This is the end user regulation to CARB’s zero-emission truck strategy, the first of which, the Advanced Clean Trucks Regulation, was directed at truck manufacturers and was issued a waiver by the United States Environmental Protection Agency in March 2023.
Storm Water Annual Report – Industrial General Permit
News
May 19, 2023
This is a reminder that the Storm Water Annual Report for industrial facilities for the 2022-2023 reporting period is due July 15, 2023. This requirement only applies to facilities that are currently enrolled under the General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Industrial Activities. The Water Board has created the following guide to assist dischargers with the reporting.
Construction Storm Water Program - California Construction General Permit Update
News
April 27, 2023
On September 8, 2022, the California State Water Resources Control Board approved the new Construction General Permit, an NPDES permit regulating stormwater discharges from construction sites. The new permit will go into effect on September 1, 2023. However, projects that secure coverage under the current permit prior to September 1, 2023, will be grandfathered to the old permit for two years after the effective date.
On March 31, 2023, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) granted California waivers for two California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations aimed at reducing emissions standards for new heavy-duty vehicles.
Uniquely as a state, California can pass air quality regulations more stringent than that of federal regulations. For California’s more stringent regulations on motor vehicle however, the US EPA must grant these regulations waivers.
In January of 2023, CARB instituted a new regulation called the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Regulation. This is a new program to test the emissions systems of nearly all diesel and alternative fuel vehicles over 14,000 lbs. GVW operates in California. This program includes personal vehicles as well.
The merger will enhance the voice of union-signatory heavy-civil construction contractors across the state while expanding services, advocacy, and support for all UCON members.
News
January 12, 2023
United Contractors (UCON) and Engineering Contractors Association (ECA) have finalized a merger-acquisition that will result in ECA joining UCON. The merger will enhance the voice of union-signatory heavy-civil construction contractors across the state while expanding services, advocacy, and support for all UCON members.
In a win for CA employers, on February 15, 2023, the Ninth Circuit issued its opinion regarding California's Assembly Bill 51, legislation which prevented employers from conditioning employment on an employee's acceptance of an arbitration agreement.
New Regulation to Remain in Effect Until February 2025
News
January 12, 2023
The permanent COVID-19 prevention regulations approved by the Cal/OSHA Standards Board on December 15, 2022, became effective as of February 3, 2023. This new regulation will remain in effect through February 3, 2025. The recordkeeping requirements will remain in effect until February 3, 2026.
We were excited to help kick off Sue Dyer's Bringing Women into Construction series on her Lead With Trust podcast. During the episode, UCON's EVP, Emily Cohen and Sue discuss the reasons why the number of women in construction, percentage-wise, is abysmal. They discuss the workforce and talent shortage currently being experienced by the industry and the conversations and solutions that they hope will arise from this series.
The Governor's January budget was released on January 10, and is just the beginning of a month-long budget process. The following from Kiana Valentine of Transportation California and Politico Group is an analysis of the Governor’s January Budget for 2023-24, and how it relates specifically to transportation and infrastructure related programs and our industry.
As we roll into 2023, we continue to receive questions on what, if any, impact AB 1851 has on the industry and day-to-day operations. The detailed explanation below serves as a primer of what happened and what, if anything, your company needs to do.
Below is a summary of the bills United Contractors advocated on throughout the 2022 Legislative Year, and the results of our efforts.
News
October 31, 2022
September 30 marked the official end of the 2022 Legislative Year. Throughout the year, UCON's Advocacy Team -- guided by our Legislative Committee and Board of Directors -- tracked hundreds of bills and worked to actively oppose or support dozens of bills that impact California's union-signatory contractors.
The critical facts about a new law protecting cannabis users and the construction industry exemption
News
September 29, 2022
Governor Newsom has signed AB 2188, which prohibits employers from discriminating in hiring, firing or setting conditions of employment based upon a person’s use of cannabis away from the workplace; or an employer-required drug screening test that has found the person to have non-psychoactive cannabis metabolites in their hair, blood, urine, or other bodily fluids. However, the law "does not apply to an employee in the building and construction trades.”
California Construction Employers Secure Some Wins in COVID-19 Paid Leave Relief Package
News
September 29, 2022
After significant advocacy from United Contractors, Governor Newsom has signed (AB 152) a budget trailer bill which implements the COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Relief Grant Program.
The Fix Our Roads coalition, of which UCON is a member, has issued a statement in response to the expected vote by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to phase out sales of new gas vehicles by 2035. Last month the coalition sent a letter to Governor Newsom and CARB members outlining their concerns that there is currently no plan to identify a replacement revenue source for tens of billions in gas tax revenues needed to maintain California’s roads.
Opportunities & Updates for UCON’s Southern California Contractors
Meet Clay O'Neal, UCON's Regional VP - Southern California, and learn more about our bargaining and advocacy efforts, educational programs, and networking events. Read more...
Recognizing Excellence, Awareness & Leadership in Safety
The safety awards program has been developed to highlight the importance of safety in our industry, as well as to honor some of the safest contractors in our association. Read more about the winning organizations in the July 2022 issue of the UCON magazine.
United Contractors is fighting to secure tax relief for union signatory contractors (SB 114)
It is unreasonable and unfair to ask our employers, who already pay premium wages, to shoulder the costs of paid leave; especially as the state sits on a historic budget surplus.
UCON Up Front: February 2022, by Joe Sostaric, the Conco Companies, UCON President
I’m writing this article as one of my first acts since being elected as the new President of UCON. First, let me say to all that I am deeply honored and humbled to be given the opportunity to lead this great organization.
On February 9, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill (SB) 114 into law, which requires businesses with 26 or more employees to provide workers with up to 80 hours of COVID paid leave.
Today, President Biden signed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) into law. This historic bill provides $550 billion in new spending over five years for U.S. infrastructure upgrades.
Late last night, The U.S. House of Representatives finally passed a once-in-a-generation infrastructure bill. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), if signed into law, includes $29.9 billion in highway funds and $10.3 billion in funds for California transit over the next five years. Read more...
Take Action on Important Issues Facing the Industry
News
August 28, 2023
The Legislature returned from its four-week summer break on Monday, August 14 to begin their final month of the 2023 session. By-and-large policy committee deadlines have passed and for virtually all bills that remain alive, they are either awaiting consideration on the floor in the second house or – for measures with fiscal impacts – are awaiting hearing in the Appropriations Committee.
UCON's Scholarship Program will be offering a fall season of awards this year. Up to $12,000 will be distrbuted. Applications will be accepted from Friday, September 15th - Thursday, October 16th. To be added to our mailing list, contact Denise Ramirez.
Recognizing Excellence, Awareness & Leadership in Safety
The safety awards program has been developed to highlight the importance of safety in our industry, as well as to honor some of the safest contractors in our association. Read more about the winning organizations in the July 2023 issue of the UCON magazine.
After much anticipation, The California Small Business and Nonprofit COVID-19 Relief Grant Program (to pay for COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave) is now taking applications. After significant advocacy from United Contractors, the State of California built and funded the program in the Budget Act of 2022 (AB-178) and authorized it through Assembly Bill 152 in September 2022.
The website for the program has been officially launched and is now taking applications.
United Contractors Scholarship Committee is proud to announce the 2023 UCON Scholarship Awards Program winners. A record of $60,000 total will be distributed to the following sixteen students, who are being recognized not only for their academic achievements but also for their contributions to the communities they plan to serve.
This year has proven to be one of the hottest ones on record. To protect yourself and your employees, make sure you have your Heat Illness Prevention Plan in place. Heat illness can result if precautions are not taken.
Hundreds of UCON members urged legislators to pass reform package
News
June 28, 2023
On June 26, California’s State Legislature agreed to advance Governor Newsom’s streamlining package that will accelerate delivery of transportation, water, and energy infrastructure projects, unlocking $180 billion in funds over the next decade.
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan Requirements
News
June 28, 2023
In a previous issue, we let you know that the new Construction General Permit will go into effect on September 1, 2023. Over the next couple of months, we are going to take a more in-depth look at the changes. The revised inspection requirements follow.
Is your off-road fleet ready for January 1, 2024, Off-road Diesel Regulation Requirements?
News
June 28, 2023
Amendments to CARB’s Off-road Diesel Regulation
As mentioned in a previous issue, the California Air Resources Board approved amendments to the Off-road Diesel Regulation. The amendments included new requirements which start on January 1, 2024.
Please visit UCON's Grassroots Advocacy Center to make your voice heard on these three important issues that directly impact union contractors.
❌ OPPOSE Proposed Lead standards revisions, which would present significant costs to contractors and invasive medical and privacy requirements for workers.
❌ OPPOSE SB 365, which would limit the rights of union contractors who collectively bargain.
On April 24, 2023, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation. This regulation transitions High Priority Fleets, those with 50 or more trucks or companies with $50 million in revenue with one truck, to zero-emission trucks by 2045. This is the end user regulation to CARB’s zero-emission truck strategy, the first of which, the Advanced Clean Trucks Regulation, was directed at truck manufacturers and was issued a waiver by the United States Environmental Protection Agency in March 2023.
Storm Water Annual Report – Industrial General Permit
News
May 19, 2023
This is a reminder that the Storm Water Annual Report for industrial facilities for the 2022-2023 reporting period is due July 15, 2023. This requirement only applies to facilities that are currently enrolled under the General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Industrial Activities. The Water Board has created the following guide to assist dischargers with the reporting.
Construction Storm Water Program - California Construction General Permit Update
News
April 27, 2023
On September 8, 2022, the California State Water Resources Control Board approved the new Construction General Permit, an NPDES permit regulating stormwater discharges from construction sites. The new permit will go into effect on September 1, 2023. However, projects that secure coverage under the current permit prior to September 1, 2023, will be grandfathered to the old permit for two years after the effective date.
On March 31, 2023, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) granted California waivers for two California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations aimed at reducing emissions standards for new heavy-duty vehicles.
Uniquely as a state, California can pass air quality regulations more stringent than that of federal regulations. For California’s more stringent regulations on motor vehicle however, the US EPA must grant these regulations waivers.
In January of 2023, CARB instituted a new regulation called the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Regulation. This is a new program to test the emissions systems of nearly all diesel and alternative fuel vehicles over 14,000 lbs. GVW operates in California. This program includes personal vehicles as well.
The merger will enhance the voice of union-signatory heavy-civil construction contractors across the state while expanding services, advocacy, and support for all UCON members.
News
January 12, 2023
United Contractors (UCON) and Engineering Contractors Association (ECA) have finalized a merger-acquisition that will result in ECA joining UCON. The merger will enhance the voice of union-signatory heavy-civil construction contractors across the state while expanding services, advocacy, and support for all UCON members.
In a win for CA employers, on February 15, 2023, the Ninth Circuit issued its opinion regarding California's Assembly Bill 51, legislation which prevented employers from conditioning employment on an employee's acceptance of an arbitration agreement.
New Regulation to Remain in Effect Until February 2025
News
January 12, 2023
The permanent COVID-19 prevention regulations approved by the Cal/OSHA Standards Board on December 15, 2022, became effective as of February 3, 2023. This new regulation will remain in effect through February 3, 2025. The recordkeeping requirements will remain in effect until February 3, 2026.
We were excited to help kick off Sue Dyer's Bringing Women into Construction series on her Lead With Trust podcast. During the episode, UCON's EVP, Emily Cohen and Sue discuss the reasons why the number of women in construction, percentage-wise, is abysmal. They discuss the workforce and talent shortage currently being experienced by the industry and the conversations and solutions that they hope will arise from this series.
The Governor's January budget was released on January 10, and is just the beginning of a month-long budget process. The following from Kiana Valentine of Transportation California and Politico Group is an analysis of the Governor’s January Budget for 2023-24, and how it relates specifically to transportation and infrastructure related programs and our industry.
As we roll into 2023, we continue to receive questions on what, if any, impact AB 1851 has on the industry and day-to-day operations. The detailed explanation below serves as a primer of what happened and what, if anything, your company needs to do.
Thank you to all of our members who responded to our annual membership survey. Your input helps us to continue exceeding your expectations and delivering the highest level of service in the industry.
We are thrilled to report our best results to date. Click images below to see how we did.
Below is a summary of the bills United Contractors advocated on throughout the 2022 Legislative Year, and the results of our efforts.
News
October 31, 2022
September 30 marked the official end of the 2022 Legislative Year. Throughout the year, UCON's Advocacy Team -- guided by our Legislative Committee and Board of Directors -- tracked hundreds of bills and worked to actively oppose or support dozens of bills that impact California's union-signatory contractors.
The critical facts about a new law protecting cannabis users and the construction industry exemption
News
September 29, 2022
Governor Newsom has signed AB 2188, which prohibits employers from discriminating in hiring, firing or setting conditions of employment based upon a person’s use of cannabis away from the workplace; or an employer-required drug screening test that has found the person to have non-psychoactive cannabis metabolites in their hair, blood, urine, or other bodily fluids. However, the law "does not apply to an employee in the building and construction trades.”
California Construction Employers Secure Some Wins in COVID-19 Paid Leave Relief Package
News
September 29, 2022
After significant advocacy from United Contractors, Governor Newsom has signed (AB 152) a budget trailer bill which implements the COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Relief Grant Program.
The Fix Our Roads coalition, of which UCON is a member, has issued a statement in response to the expected vote by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to phase out sales of new gas vehicles by 2035. Last month the coalition sent a letter to Governor Newsom and CARB members outlining their concerns that there is currently no plan to identify a replacement revenue source for tens of billions in gas tax revenues needed to maintain California’s roads.
Opportunities & Updates for UCON’s Southern California Contractors
Meet Clay O'Neal, UCON's Regional VP - Southern California, and learn more about our bargaining and advocacy efforts, educational programs, and networking events. Read more...
Recognizing Excellence, Awareness & Leadership in Safety
The safety awards program has been developed to highlight the importance of safety in our industry, as well as to honor some of the safest contractors in our association. Read more about the winning organizations in the July 2022 issue of the UCON magazine.
United Contractors is fighting to secure tax relief for union signatory contractors (SB 114)
It is unreasonable and unfair to ask our employers, who already pay premium wages, to shoulder the costs of paid leave; especially as the state sits on a historic budget surplus.
UCON Up Front: February 2022, by Joe Sostaric, the Conco Companies, UCON President
I’m writing this article as one of my first acts since being elected as the new President of UCON. First, let me say to all that I am deeply honored and humbled to be given the opportunity to lead this great organization.
On February 9, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill (SB) 114 into law, which requires businesses with 26 or more employees to provide workers with up to 80 hours of COVID paid leave.
Today, President Biden signed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) into law. This historic bill provides $550 billion in new spending over five years for U.S. infrastructure upgrades.
Late last night, The U.S. House of Representatives finally passed a once-in-a-generation infrastructure bill. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), if signed into law, includes $29.9 billion in highway funds and $10.3 billion in funds for California transit over the next five years. Read more...
