By JIM YOUNG

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House of Representatives is expected to consider the Faster Labor Contracts Act (FLCA) in the coming weeks, legislation that could significantly change the collective bargaining process for construction employers.

The bill would shorten bargaining timelines and increase the use of binding arbitration if negotiations fail. AGC believes this could shift leverage away from employers, disrupt established bargaining practices and create uncertainty for contractors.

Because construction labor relations often rely on locally negotiated multi-employer agreements tailored to regional markets, AGC fears that outside arbitration panels may impose terms that do not reflect local conditions or the construction industry.

The legislation could affect both open-shop and union contractors by creating contract terms that differ from existing local agreements. AGC is urging members to contact lawmakers and oppose the bill, arguing labor agreements should result from voluntary negotiations rather than government-imposed contracts.