Rapid Response Action Call: Protect USW Jobs in New Jersey: Take Action on A4072!

Click here to download this Action Call as a PDF.

USW members and families in New Jersey need to be aware of a bill moving in Trenton that could directly impact our ability to work on public construction projects.

Assembly Bill 4072 would require workers on public projects to have at least four years of experience in a specific craft, unless they are part of a union whose contract is used by the state to set prevailing wage rates.

Why does this matter to USW members?

Many USW members in New Jersey already work on public projects across multiple trades. Our members are paid prevailing wages and are recognized as a qualified workforce by the state. However, the state does not typically use USW contracts to set those wage rates.

This bill would unfairly block many USW members, especially newer workers, from working on public projects, even if they are fully trained and qualified.

What’s at Stake?

For over 50 years, USW members have safely and successfully worked in New Jersey’s heavy and highway construction industry. This bill threatens that history and our future.

The bill is unfair and creates a double standard between unions. It has nothing to do with skill or safety and undermines long-standing cooperation, including agreements that allow USW members to work alongside other building trades. The bill would unfairly block qualified USW workers from public jobs and lawmakers should protect fair access to work for all union members.

Urge Your New Jersey State Assembly Members and Senators to OPPOSE A4072!

The bill would unfairly block qualified USW workers from public jobs and lawmakers should protect fair access to work for all union members.

We need USW members to speak up. Click here to send a pre-written email to your New Jersey State Assembly Members and Senators.

For more information on this issue or how you can get more involved with Rapid Response, please contact District 4 Rapid Response Coordinator, Mark McDonald, at [email protected].