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ASA believes that the construction practices of the federal government — the largest construction owner in the country — should be an example for the entire construction industry. ASA works with Congress, trade and business organizations to promote fair procurement policy.
- Subcontractors should be promptly paid for work they properly perform, including on all federal and federally funded construction projects.
- Bid shopping on federal construction, including "electronic reverse bid auctions," manipulates the competitive bidding process, which results in a windfall for prime contractors but does not guarantee best-value construction for taxpayers or the government but lowest bidder.
- Proposals to classify construction as a "commercial item" would damage federal procurement processes.
- The prime contractor is legally required to provide adequate payment surety bonds to subcontractors on federal and federally funded construction.
- The federal government should be wary of using wrap-up insurance programs, as they can shift hidden costs to subcontractors.
UPDATE: Read ASA's Comments on the proposed Confined Spaces in Construction Rule
OSHA's Proposed Rule on Confined Spaces The policies of the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) have immediate impact on ASA companies and their employees. ASA works with OSHA to develop fair and equitable rules and regulations that develop a safer construction workplace.
- ASA supports safe and healthy workplaces that are fully in compliance with OSHA and state and local standards and regulations.
- OSHA's rulemaking has resulted in extensive paperwork requirements and onerous fine structures, and needs improvement.
Sound government economic and tax policies are critical to fostering growth and development of Americas businesses. ASA works with members of Congress, the Small Business Administration, the Small Business Legislative Council and other groups to foster a positive economic environment.
- The nation needs federal transportation investment that will truly meet its needs.
- Closely held businesses and farms that are passed on to heirs would face fewer challenges if estate tax reform were made permanent.
- Clearer Internal Revenue Service "independent contractor" rules would benefit businesses and workers alike.
- New IRS expensing and accelerated depreciation regulations help construction businesses that purchase equipment.
Immigration Reform
Other
- On Nov. 10, 2005, ASA sent a letter
 to all members of the U.S. House of Representatives, urging the passage of H.R. 3717, the Good Samaritan Protection for Construction Volunteers Act.
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