AGC helps construction firms prepare for ripple effect

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On March 30, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) issued new carbon standards under its Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service (P-100) to require the use of lower carbon concrete products and asphalt paving practices for all GSA design and construction contracts that involve at least 10 cubic yards of those materials. The general contractor now must source concrete that meet specific carbon requirements; collect and maintain documentation associated with both materials; and, in the case of asphalt, employ carbon reduction practices such as recycled content or reduced mix temperatures.

AGC is pleased to announce the appointment of new members to serve on its Environmental Forum Steering Committee. Members of the steering committee have direct access to federal regulatory officials, influence over AGC’s environmental agenda, and a means to exchange valuable information with one another and industry peers. Join us in welcoming the new members.

IPD represents a small share of project delivery methods used in the United States, but there are advantages. Lean construction works most efficiently with an IPD agreement providing the contractual framework to collaborate. A highlight recent study concluded that the business case for lean construction is compelling. A recent AGC webinar outlining the study can be accessed here.

A federal Judge in Texas recently ruled that the Biden administration’s U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Wage and Hour Division (WHD) DOL violated the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) when promulgating both the Delay and Withdrawal Rules. The ruling effectively reinstates the Trump rule dating back to March 2021. AGC has long called for federal clarification of the independent contractor status and preservation of legitimate independent contractor relationships, such as those that have historically existed in the construction industry. AGC supported the Trump administration’s rule that adopted a consistent, clear and common-sense standard for determining independent contractor status under the FLSA and filed comments opposing the DOL move to withdraw the rule. AGC will keep members apprised of any new developments and fully expects to participate in any future revision or adoption of guidance regarding the independent contractor status.

On March 3, 2022, President Joe Biden signed a law that limits the use of predispute arbitration agreements and class action waivers covering sexual assault and sexual harassment claims.