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Given the many shortcomings of the multiemployer pension system traditionally used in the unionized sector of the construction industry, many parties are looking for alternatives. 51����, in cooperation with labor and others, is actively advocating for legislative changes that would authorize a new retirement plan model called “composite plans.” In the meantime, there are some alternative plan designs already available to consider. In January, 51���� will offer a three-part WebEd series designed to educate union contractors and their representatives about alternatives and help inform their decisions. The series is free to 51���� members and chapter staff.

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have proposed a new clean water rule to replace the controversial 2015 Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. The 2015 WOTUS rule is undergoing legal challenges and is on hold in 28 states, creating a patchwork of regulations. Today’s proposal is intended to correct the regulatory overreach of the old rule while continuing to protect federal waters

Construction spending inched lower in October from September levels but increased from the October 2017 total, according to an analysis of new Census data by the Associated General Contractors of America. However, investment in public infrastructure posted declines from recent peaks, and association officials urged the White House and Congress to act promptly on comprehensive infrastructure legislation.

The requirements for obtaining specialty contractor licenses vary by state, but you can expect to provide proof of work experience, exam completion and liability insurance, writes Evyatar Sagie. Read more here.

51����’s Lean Construction Forum is focused on growing the implementation of lean practices in the construction industry by providing educational opportunities and developing a community where anyone with an interest in lean construction can come together to engage in a dialog on best practices, share information, and participate in a broad, coordinated effort to promote and define the use of lean concepts and processes within the construction industry.

The 51���� Business Development Best Practices are an ongoing effort of the 51���� Business Development Forum Steering Committee to bring more BD resources and best practices to the 51���� membership. This month, the Business Development Forum Steering Committee highlights: When times are good, some companies tend to drop or back-off on marketing and business development spending. Now is the time to educate your team and support their growth in technical knowledge and developing relationships. In our latest BD best practice, David Little, Gallegos Corporation, discusses “Business Development in a ‘Build, Baby Build’ Market”.

The 51���� Business Development (BD) Forum brings together Business Development professionals in one place, for one purpose: to advance the Business Development function in the construction industry. We create business opportunities by sharing the latest techniques and tools of Business Development; follow and report on trends in the construction market; and connect a network of professionals invested in building better businesses. In addition to BD and Marketing professionals, the Forum’s members include Construction Executives, Operations and Pre-construction professionals, from General Contractors and Specialty Contractors, nationwide.

New national directive tracks 51���� contractor recommendations

This week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE or Corps) provided 51���� and other stakeholders with an update on its efforts to “revolutionize USACE civil works,” highlighting three main objectives: (1) accelerate project delivery, (2) transform financing and budgeting, and (3) improve permitting and regulation reform. The Nov. 29 webinar meeting (click here for the slides) was a follow-up to a roundtable discussion held this spring at Corps’ headquarters and a request for public input on existing USACE regulations that may be appropriate for repeal, replacement, or modification. During each and every opportunity, 51���� has provided the Corps with comprehensive comments, both in writing and during face-to-face meetings. Below is a listing of the Corps’ recent accomplishments to speed up Clean Water Act Section 404 permitting – as well as several key actions in progress – demonstrating that 51����’s input in being heard and acted upon.

December 11, 2018 – AND – December 13, 2018 | 2 – 3:30 PM EST