By Chris Schneider, Executive Director, SMACNA Oregon & SW Washington
Our industry relies on active advocacy in the halls of government. From city halls and the state capitol to our nation’s capital, our political committees protect our members and the integrity of our trade.
Engaging Leaders Across the Aisle
Effective advocacy requires bipartisan relationships with lawmakers. In the past weeks, our legislative teams have met with key decision makers, including Oregon State House and Senate Republicans, as well as House and Senate Democrats.
At the federal level, we have met with U.S. Representative Val Hoyle. These discussions focus on securing federal infrastructure investments, strengthening labor standards, and supporting fair wages and safe working conditions. Our conversations with Representative Hoyle revealed her strong commitment to investing in the infrastructure of our state.
Protecting Projects and Members: Oregon SB 426
The benefits of this legislative work appear in our efforts surrounding Oregon Senate Bill 426. As detailed in our joint guidance with SMACNA Oregon & SW Washington and SMART Local 16, SB 426 establishes joint and several liability for unpaid wages on construction projects. Under this law, general contractors and property owners can be held directly liable if a lower-tier subcontractor fails to pay workers, even if the general contractor paid that subcontractor in full.
The liability rules do not apply to workers covered by a valid collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Because our CBAs guarantee fair pay and resolve wage disputes, projects utilizing SMACNA contractors and SMART Local 16 members are shielded from this legal exposure.
To help contractors communicate this value, we provide an example letter that signatory contractors can share directly with their customers, building owners, architects, and project stakeholders. This resource highlights how hiring a SMACNA contractor mitigates project liability, protects bottom lines, and ensures work is performed safely under a trusted CBA.
Fueling Our Mission: The Role of PAC Contributions
These advocacy efforts are made possible through voluntary contributions to our Local and National Political Action Committees.
Political action committees serve as our collective voice in the political process, allowing us to support candidates and secure legislative exemptions. Protecting our trade requires active participation from every member. You can support our ongoing political initiatives by making a contribution to the SMACNA-SMART PAC. Support our political action efforts by donating here today. ■
