A host of factors converged in 1970 to spur the growth of the open-shop movement, scaring union construction workers and contractors. Wage inflation, union restrictions, jurisdictional disputes, low productivity and other labor problems had eroded the value of the construction dollar, causing owners to take a more critical look at their procedures. The large industrial contractors that made up the National Constructors Association told ENR in a 1970 cover story that they had lost more than 150 projects representing $7.5 billion to nonunion and open-shop contractors over the previous two years. The unions were worried as well. “Unless we take drastic action to correct certain abuses and practices, we are going to lose more work,” said C.J. Haggerty, president of the AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department.

Pennsylvania’s hardworking tradesmen and women—carpenters, plumbers, heavy equipment operators—aren’t asking for handouts. They just want a fair shot at the American Dream. However, Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration is slamming the door on nearly 90% of the Commonwealth’s construction workforce, all because they choose not to toe the union line. This isn’t “getting sh*t done,” it’s a special interest power grab that rigs the game for Shapiro’s big union handlers.

For the second year in a row, Ohio ranks sixth in the country by Site Selection for top business climates, keeping the Buckeye State at the forefront as state leaders continue to woo large corporations and developments.

While Ohio legislators aimed to send intoxicating hemp regulations to Gov. Mike DeWine before the Thanksgiving holiday, lawmakers have fallen short.

Pennsylvania’s hardworking tradesmen and women—carpenters, plumbers, heavy equipment operators—aren’t asking for handouts. They just want a fair shot at the American Dream. However, Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration is slamming the door on nearly 90% of the Commonwealth’s construction workforce, all because they choose not to toe the union line.