mr BRUCE BURTON

The IBEW continued to urge Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as fast track, and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adopted, TPA would only allow Congress and up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve of amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTAs, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for American workers. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644) and H.R. 2146, the legislative vehicle for Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). If adopted, TPA would allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as "fast track", and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adoped, TPA would only allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTA's, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for America workers. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (H.R. 3 and S. 1), legislation that would approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. Although America continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, unemployment rates in the construction industry remain relatively high. Construction of the pipeline will put Americans back-to-work and have positive ripple effects throughout the economy.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (H.R. 3 and S. 1), legislation that would approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. Although America continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, unemployment rates in the construction industry remain relatively high. Construction of the pipeline will put Americans back-to-work and have positive ripple effects throughout the economy.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (H.R. 3 and S. 1), legislation that would approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. Although America continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, unemployment rates in the construction industry remain relatively high. Construction of the pipeline will put Americans back-to-work and have positive ripple effects throughout the economy. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose H.R. 702 or any legislation lifting the crude oil export ban. Each year, IBEW construction electricians and apprentices, who earn middle-class wages and benefits, work millions of labor hours in American oil refineries. Lifting the crude oil export ban would place many of those hours at risk as oil producers would no longer be required to refine crude oil before export.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (H.R. 3 and S. 1), legislation that would approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. Although America continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, unemployment rates in the construction industry remain relatively high. Construction of the pipeline will put Americans back-to-work and have positive ripple effects throughout the economy.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (H.R. 3 and S. 1), legislation that would approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. Although America continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, unemployment rates in the construction industry remain relatively high. Construction of the pipeline will put Americans back-to-work and have positive ripple effects throughout the economy.

The IBEW urged Congress to support language found in Section 4302 of the Energy Policy Modernization Act of 2015 that would help address grid reliability in deregulated electricity markets. Competitive market conditions, cumulative environmental regulations, and capacity market rules that disadvantage baseload power generation has made the grid more dependent on less reliable resources. Under these conditions, it has been difficult for baseload generation to clear capacity market auctions thus placing grid reliability at risk. Section 4302 is an attempt to fix this problem. The IBEW lobbied Congress in support of the Hydropower Improvement Act of 2015 (S. 1235), legislation to reform the relicensing and regulation of hydroelectric generation. As the United States moves toward a lower-carbon future, it has become clear hydropower has become burdened with excessive, time-consuming, and costly regulation. To help address these issues S. 1236 would improve administrative efficiency, reduce duplicative oversight, and promote timely decision-making in the hydropower relicensing process. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Assuring Private Property Rights Over Vast Access to Lands (APPROVAL) Act (S. 485 and H.R. 3062), legislation to stop construction of much needed infrastructure in the United States. By intent, the legislation targets one project, the Plains and Eastern Clean Line, a high-voltage direct current transmission line proposed to run from the Oklahoma Panhandle 700 miles to western Tennessee. As written however, the legislation would curtail transmission siting authority across the United States.

The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Keep the Promise Act of 2015 (S. 152 and H.R. 308) legislation that would halt construction of a $400 million casino project being built by the Tohono O'odam Nation in Glendale, Arizona.

The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Keep the Promise Act of 2015 (S. 152 and H.R. 308) legislation that would halt construction of a $400 million casino project being built by the Tohono O'odam Nation in Glendale, Arizona.

The IBEW continued to urge Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as fast track, and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adopted, TPA would only allow Congress and up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve of amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTAs, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for American workers. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644) and H.R. 2146, the legislative vehicle for Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). If adopted, TPA would allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as "fast track", and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adoped, TPA would only allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTA's, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for America workers. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644) and H.R. 2146, the legislative vehicle for Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). If adopted, TPA would allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW continued to urge Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as fast track, and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adopted, TPA would only allow Congress and up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve of amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTAs, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for American workers. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644) and H.R. 2146, the legislative vehicle for Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). If adopted, TPA would allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as "fast track", and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adoped, TPA would only allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTA's, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for America workers. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW continued to urge Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as fast track, and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adopted, TPA would only allow Congress and up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve of amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTAs, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for American workers. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644) and H.R. 2146, the legislative vehicle for Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). If adopted, TPA would allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as "fast track", and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adoped, TPA would only allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTA's, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for America workers. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW continued to urge Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as fast track, and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adopted, TPA would only allow Congress and up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve of amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTAs, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for American workers. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644) and H.R. 2146, the legislative vehicle for Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). If adopted, TPA would allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as "fast track", and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adoped, TPA would only allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTA's, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for America workers. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (H.R. 3 and S. 1), legislation that would approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. Although America continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, unemployment rates in the construction industry remain relatively high. Construction of the pipeline will put Americans back-to-work and have positive ripple effects throughout the economy. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose H.R. 702 or any legislation lifting the crude oil export ban. Each year, IBEW construction electricians and apprentices, who earn middle-class wages and benefits, work millions of labor hours in American oil refineries. Lifting the crude oil export ban would place many of those hours at risk as oil producers would no longer be required to refine crude oil before export.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (H.R. 3 and S. 1), legislation that would approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. Although America continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, unemployment rates in the construction industry remain relatively high. Construction of the pipeline will put Americans back-to-work and have positive ripple effects throughout the economy.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (H.R. 3 and S. 1), legislation that would approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. Although America continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, unemployment rates in the construction industry remain relatively high. Construction of the pipeline will put Americans back-to-work and have positive ripple effects throughout the economy.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (H.R. 3 and S. 1), legislation that would approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. Although America continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, unemployment rates in the construction industry remain relatively high. Construction of the pipeline will put Americans back-to-work and have positive ripple effects throughout the economy.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (H.R. 3 and S. 1), legislation that would approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. Although America continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, unemployment rates in the construction industry remain relatively high. Construction of the pipeline will put Americans back-to-work and have positive ripple effects throughout the economy. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose H.R. 702 or any legislation lifting the crude oil export ban. Each year, IBEW construction electricians and apprentices, who earn middle-class wages and benefits, work millions of labor hours in American oil refineries. Lifting the crude oil export ban would place many of those hours at risk as oil producers would no longer be required to refine crude oil before export.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act (H.R. 3 and S. 1), legislation that would approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. Although America continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, unemployment rates in the construction industry remain relatively high. Construction of the pipeline will put Americans back-to-work and have positive ripple effects throughout the economy.

The IBEW urged Congress to support language found in Section 4302 of the Energy Policy Modernization Act of 2015 that would help address grid reliability in deregulated electricity markets. Competitive market conditions, cumulative environmental regulations, and capacity market rules that disadvantage baseload power generation has made the grid more dependent on less reliable resources. Under these conditions, it has been difficult for baseload generation to clear capacity market auctions thus placing grid reliability at risk. Section 4302 is an attempt to fix this problem. The IBEW lobbied Congress in support of the Hydropower Improvement Act of 2015 (S. 1235), legislation to reform the relicensing and regulation of hydroelectric generation. As the United States moves toward a lower-carbon future, it has become clear hydropower has become burdened with excessive, time-consuming, and costly regulation. To help address these issues S. 1236 would improve administrative efficiency, reduce duplicative oversight, and promote timely decision-making in the hydropower relicensing process. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Assuring Private Property Rights Over Vast Access to Lands (APPROVAL) Act (S. 485 and H.R. 3062), legislation to stop construction of much needed infrastructure in the United States. By intent, the legislation targets one project, the Plains and Eastern Clean Line, a high-voltage direct current transmission line proposed to run from the Oklahoma Panhandle 700 miles to western Tennessee. As written however, the legislation would curtail transmission siting authority across the United States.

The IBEW urged Congress to support language found in Section 4302 of the Energy Policy Modernization Act of 2015 that would help address grid reliability in deregulated electricity markets. Competitive market conditions, cumulative environmental regulations, and capacity market rules that disadvantage baseload power generation has made the grid more dependent on less reliable resources. Under these conditions, it has been difficult for baseload generation to clear capacity market auctions thus placing grid reliability at risk. Section 4302 is an attempt to fix this problem. The IBEW lobbied Congress in support of the Hydropower Improvement Act of 2015 (S. 1235), legislation to reform the relicensing and regulation of hydroelectric generation. As the United States moves toward a lower-carbon future, it has become clear hydropower has become burdened with excessive, time-consuming, and costly regulation. To help address these issues S. 1236 would improve administrative efficiency, reduce duplicative oversight, and promote timely decision-making in the hydropower relicensing process. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Assuring Private Property Rights Over Vast Access to Lands (APPROVAL) Act (S. 485 and H.R. 3062), legislation to stop construction of much needed infrastructure in the United States. By intent, the legislation targets one project, the Plains and Eastern Clean Line, a high-voltage direct current transmission line proposed to run from the Oklahoma Panhandle 700 miles to western Tennessee. As written however, the legislation would curtail transmission siting authority across the United States.

The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Keep the Promise Act of 2015 (S. 152 and H.R. 308) legislation that would halt construction of a $400 million casino project being built by the Tohono O'odam Nation in Glendale, Arizona.

The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Keep the Promise Act of 2015 (S. 152 and H.R. 308) legislation that would halt construction of a $400 million casino project being built by the Tohono O'odam Nation in Glendale, Arizona.

The IBEW urged Senators to oppose and not cosponsor the Immigration Innovation Act of 2015 (S. 153), also known as I-Squared. Passage of this bill will drive-down the wages of high-skilled American and legal immigrant workers by increasing the annual H-1B cap from its current 65,000 up to 300,000 using a market-based escalator. Such a flood of foreign workers will decrease employment opportunities for todays university students who are studying for a degree in the science, technical, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) disciplines. In a statement sent to all Members of the California Congressional delegation, IBEW President Edwin D. Hill explained the situation at Southern California Edison (SCE) where American workers employed in SCEs IT department were replaced by lower-paid H-1B visa holders. President Hill went on to declare that absent substantial reform, its time to end the H-1B temporary visa program.

The IBEW urged Senators to oppose and not cosponsor the Immigration Innovation Act of 2015 (S. 153), also known as I-Squared. Passage of this bill will drive-down the wages of high-skilled American and legal immigrant workers by increasing the annual H-1B cap from its current 65,000 up to 300,000 using a market-based escalator. Such a flood of foreign workers will decrease employment opportunities for todays university students who are studying for a degree in the science, technical, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) disciplines. In a statement sent to all Members of the California Congressional delegation, IBEW President Edwin D. Hill explained the situation at Southern California Edison (SCE) where American workers employed in SCEs IT department were replaced by lower-paid H-1B visa holders. President Hill went on to declare that absent substantial reform, its time to end the H-1B temporary visa program.

The IBEW urged Senators to oppose and not cosponsor the Immigration Innovation Act of 2015 (S. 153), also known as I-Squared. Passage of this bill will drive-down the wages of high-skilled American and legal immigrant workers by increasing the annual H-1B cap from its current 65,000 up to 300,000 using a market-based escalator. Such a flood of foreign workers will decrease employment opportunities for todays university students who are studying for a degree in the science, technical, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) disciplines. In a statement sent to all Members of the California Congressional delegation, IBEW President Edwin D. Hill explained the situation at Southern California Edison (SCE) where American workers employed in SCEs IT department were replaced by lower-paid H-1B visa holders. President Hill went on to declare that absent substantial reform, its time to end the H-1B temporary visa program.

The IBEW urged Senators to oppose and not cosponsor the Immigration Innovation Act of 2015 (S. 153), also known as I-Squared. Passage of this bill will drive-down the wages of high-skilled American and legal immigrant workers by increasing the annual H-1B cap from its current 65,000 up to 300,000 using a market-based escalator. Such a flood of foreign workers will decrease employment opportunities for todays university students who are studying for a degree in the science, technical, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) disciplines. In a statement sent to all Members of the California Congressional delegation, IBEW President Edwin D. Hill explained the situation at Southern California Edison (SCE) where American workers employed in SCEs IT department were replaced by lower-paid H-1B visa holders. President Hill went on to declare that absent substantial reform, its time to end the H-1B temporary visa program.

The IBEW urged Congress to support language found in Section 4302 of the Energy Policy Modernization Act of 2015 that would help address grid reliability in deregulated electricity markets. Competitive market conditions, cumulative environmental regulations, and capacity market rules that disadvantage baseload power generation has made the grid more dependent on less reliable resources. Under these conditions, it has been difficult for baseload generation to clear capacity market auctions thus placing grid reliability at risk. Section 4302 is an attempt to fix this problem. The IBEW lobbied Congress in support of the Hydropower Improvement Act of 2015 (S. 1235), legislation to reform the relicensing and regulation of hydroelectric generation. As the United States moves toward a lower-carbon future, it has become clear hydropower has become burdened with excessive, time-consuming, and costly regulation. To help address these issues S. 1236 would improve administrative efficiency, reduce duplicative oversight, and promote timely decision-making in the hydropower relicensing process. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Assuring Private Property Rights Over Vast Access to Lands (APPROVAL) Act (S. 485 and H.R. 3062), legislation to stop construction of much needed infrastructure in the United States. By intent, the legislation targets one project, the Plains and Eastern Clean Line, a high-voltage direct current transmission line proposed to run from the Oklahoma Panhandle 700 miles to western Tennessee. As written however, the legislation would curtail transmission siting authority across the United States.

The IBEW continued to urge Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as fast track, and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adopted, TPA would only allow Congress and up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve of amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTAs, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for American workers. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644) and H.R. 2146, the legislative vehicle for Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). If adopted, TPA would allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as "fast track", and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adoped, TPA would only allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTA's, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for America workers. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644) and H.R. 2146, the legislative vehicle for Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). If adopted, TPA would allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW continued to urge Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as fast track, and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adopted, TPA would only allow Congress and up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve of amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTAs, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for American workers. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as "fast track", and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adoped, TPA would only allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTA's, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for America workers. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW continued to urge Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as fast track, and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adopted, TPA would only allow Congress and up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve of amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTAs, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for American workers. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644) and H.R. 2146, the legislative vehicle for Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). If adopted, TPA would allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as "fast track", and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adoped, TPA would only allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTA's, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for America workers. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW continued to urge Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as fast track, and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adopted, TPA would only allow Congress and up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve of amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTAs, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for American workers. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644) and H.R. 2146, the legislative vehicle for Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). If adopted, TPA would allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as "fast track", and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adoped, TPA would only allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTA's, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for America workers. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW continued to urge Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as fast track, and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adopted, TPA would only allow Congress and up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve of amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTAs, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for American workers. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (H.R. 644) and H.R. 2146, the legislative vehicle for Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). If adopted, TPA would allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as "fast track", and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adoped, TPA would only allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTA's, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for America workers. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW continued to urge Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as fast track, and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adopted, TPA would only allow Congress and up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve of amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTAs, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for American workers. The IBEW lobbied Congress not to impede a new 123 Agreement (treaty) with China after the President submits the renewed accord to Congress. Required by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, a 123 Agreement must be in force before a company may export American-made nuclear equipment to a foreign country. The current U.S.-China 123 Agreement is scheduled to expire on December 30, 2015. The IBEW supports its renewal. The IBEW urged Congress to oppose Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), also known as "fast track", and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Free Trade Agreement (FTA). If adoped, TPA would only allow Congress an up or down vote on a free trade agreement with no opportunity to improve or amend the agreement. The TPP FTA would be the largest FTA ever and, like previous FTA's, would lead to outsourcing and other job losses for America workers. The IBEW urged the Department of Energy to approve a Non-Free Trade Agreement (NFTA) export license (FE Docket No. 12-32-LNG) for Jordan Cove Energy Project. If approved, Jordan Cove plans to construct a $5.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility near Coos Bay, OR. Building this facility will create an average of 900 construction jobs over 42 months with permanent employment expected to be around 150 workers. The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW urged Congress to support S. 2280, a bill to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. As the nation continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, constructing the Keystone XL Pipeline will help put Americans back-to-work and have further ripple effects throughout the economy.

The IBEW urged Congress to support S. 2280, a bill to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline. As the nation continues to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression, constructing the Keystone XL Pipeline will help put Americans back-to-work and have further ripple effects throughout the economy.

The IBEW encouraged Congress to pass the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank Reauthorization Act of 2014 (S. 2709). The Ex-Im Bank levels the playing field for U.S. companies who sell their products abroad by matching the financing foreign governments provide for their exporters. Since 2009 the Ex-Im Bank has helped retain or create 1.2 million jobs in the U.S. including 205,000 just last year and at no cost to American taxpayers.

The IBEW urged Congress to continue the federally-funded Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program which was due to expire on December 31, 2013. Included in the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (H.R. 8) is a one year extension of the EUC program. H.R. 8 also provides extended unemployment benefits for those covered under the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act.

The IBEW lobbied in support of the Coal Residuals and Reuse Management Act of 2013 (H.R. 2218), bipartisan legislation that would regulate coal combustion residuals (CCRs), also known as fly ash. The legislation would establish a non-hazardous designation for CCRs, apply groundwater protection standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency, and ensure minimum federal standards for the disposal of CCRs are upheld by enforceable permits issued by the states.

The IBEW urged Congress to continue the federally-funded Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program which was due to expire on December 31, 2013. Included in the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (H.R. 8) is a one year extension of the EUC program. H.R. 8 also provides extended unemployment benefits for those covered under the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act.

The IBEW lobbied issues within the context of comprehensive immigration reform. Specifically, the union opposed bad H-1B visa provisions in the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act (S. 744) that would remove valuable worker protections. The IBEW also opposed the codification of the Bush Department of Labor (DOL) H-2B visa rules and lobbied for the inclusion of language that would extend E-verify to workers misclassified as independent contractors.

As part of legislative proposals that helped create the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (H.R. 8), the IBEW urged Congress to extend tax breaks for those who earn less than $250,000 annually; raise taxes on those who make more than a quarter million dollars a year; and preserve full benefits for Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.

The IBEW lobbied Congress in support of H.R. 2604, legislation that would greatly restrict the use of an obscure corporate tax break known as the Reverse Morris Trust (RMT). To qualify, a corporation spins-off part of its operations into an unrelated company. If the shareholders of the original corporation control a majority of the voting rights and economic value of the new, merged company then the transaction is tax free. At a time when the federal government is struggling to find revenue, repealing this tax dodge would greatly assist the U.S. Treasury and middle-class taxpayers.

The IBEW supported the Preventing Real Online Threats to Economic Creativity and Theft of Intellectual Property (PROTECT IP) Act (S.968) and the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA H.R. 3261). This legislation would crackdown on piracy and counterfeiting by foreign websites by giving the Department of Justice the legal tools to stop foreign websites (often criminal enterprises) from selling copyrighted material to U.S. consumers.

The IBEW sent a letter to Capitol Hill and lobbied in support of the Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act (H.R. 2378). This legislation would allow the President to apply tariffs and countervailing duties on imported products from countries who deliberately manipulate their currency. Goods from countries that deliberately undervalue their currency place American products at an artificial disadvantage in the global marketplace.

The IBEW sent a letter to Capitol Hill and lobbied in support of the Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act (H.R. 2378). This legislation would allow the President to apply tariffs and countervailing duties on imported products from countries who deliberately manipulate their currency. Goods from countries that deliberately undervalue their currency place American products at an artificial disadvantage in the global marketplace.

The IBEW worked in support of the Preserve Benefits and Jobs Act of 2009 (H.R.3936) and Title III in the American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010(H.R.4213), legislation that would grant meaningful multi employer pension plan relief for defined benefit, Taft-Hartley pensions plans.

The IBEW wrote House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton in support of the Defense Communities Assistance Act of 2009 (H.R. 2295), legislation designed to assist local communities with the economic impact of military base closures and realignments.

The IBEW lobbied Congress to change Section (b) of the Satellite Home Viewer Update and Reauthorization Act (H.R. 3570) to ensure DBS companies cannot import distant network signal into a local television market when digital spectrum in a local multicast signal from a different affiliate is available.

H.R.2116 - The IBEW continued to lobby against the Freight Rail Infrastructure Act of 2007, legislation that provides for a 25% tax credit on rail infrastructure improvements made by freight railroad companies, because it does not contain Davis-Bacon enabling language

Labor/Davis Bacon: The IBEW lobbied against the Freight Rail Infrastructure Capacity Act of 2007 (H.R. 2116), legislation that provides for 25% tax credit on rail infrastructure improvements made by freight railroad companies, because it did not contain Davis-Bacon enabling language.

H.R2641.EH-We lobbied for an amendment to the continuing resolution for an additional $19.8 million for the program and a future extension beyond the 2009 current extension.

Infrastructure/School Construction: The IBEW urged Congress to support the 21st Century High-Performing Public School Facilities Act (H.R.3021) and it companion, the Loebsack-Kildee Education and Labor Committee substitute. The average American school in use today is over 50 years old and many have leaky roofs, faulty electrical systems, and outdated technologies. H.R.3021 and its substitute would provide up to $6.4 billion of direct investment for critical school repairs.

* Labor/Nominations: The IBEW supported the nomination of Diane Rath as Assistant Secretary for Family Support at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Currently, Ms. Rath serves as Commissioner and Chair of the Texas Workforce Commission . Labor/Davis-Bacon: The IBEW urged Congress to add Davis-Bacon prevailing wage protections to the Freight Rail Infrastructure Capacity Act of 2007 (H.R. 2116). The IBEW lobbied freshmen members of the Congress about the Davis-Bacon prevailing act of 1931. Labor/Employee Free Choice Act The IBEW lobbied for passage of the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA), legislation to provide for "card check" recognition of a bargaining unit where the union can show majority support; mediation and biding arbitration for first-contract negotiation if the union and employer cannot reach agreement within sixty days of recognition; and up to triple damages for unfair labor practices (ULP) Labor/Re-Empowerment of Skilled and Professional Employees and Construction Tradesworker Act: In response to an onerous National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) decision that expanded the definition of "supervisor," the IBEW lobbied for the Re-Empowerment of Skilled and Professional Employees and Construction Tradesworkers (RESPECT) Act. The RESPECT Act clarifies Congress' original intent that employees with limited supervisory responsibility should not be excluded from Labor/Independent Contractor - Misclassification of Workers The IBEW lobbied Congress to address the problem of unscrupulous employers who wrongfully misclassify employees as "independent contractors." Employers who engage in this practice deprive workers of legitimate protections under federal and state labor laws and cost government billions of dollars in tax revenue each year. Labor/Nominations: The IBEW supported the nomination of Diane Rath as Assistant Secretary for Family Support at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Currently, Ms. Rath serves as Commissioner and Chair of the Texas Workforce Commission . Labor/Davis-Bacon: The IBEW urged Congress to add Davis-Bacon prevailing wage protections to the Freight Rail Infrastructure Capacity Act of 2007 (H.R. 2116). The IBEW lobbied freshmen members of the Congress about the Davis-Bacon prevailing act of 1931.

This includes the recently signed Panama, Peru, Columbia, and South Korea free trade agreements and opposed to the renewal of presidential fast track Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). IBEW supports addressing the problem of currency manipulation with China and Japan. Bill Ref.: HR 782/S 796, Fair Currency Act of 2007; HR 2942, Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act of 2007. The IBEW is opposed to all new free trade agreements negotiated under the failed NAFTA/CAFTA template.

beneficiaries. This bill would permit the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to negotiate with drug companies to lower the prices of Medicare prescription drugs. The American people would benefit from increased competition under Medicare Part D. Bill Ref.: H.R. 4, the Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Act of 2007. Health Care/ Medicare Prescription Drugs The IBEW supported lower Medicare prescription drugs prices through competition on behalf of Medicare

Labor/Immigration The IBEW opposes a provision in the bill that would permit hundreds of thousands of temporary foreign workers to enter the country each year, ultimately expanding guest workers to over 3 million in 10 years. Temporary guest worker programs without any credible wage protections (Davis-Bacon) or other labor protections such as OSHA, and Workers’ Compensation is unacceptable. Driving down wages and living standards for American workers is not in the best interest of American workers and deviates from a long-held American value that anyone who arrives on our shores legally be afforded a path to citizenship. Americans have earned a middle-class lifestyle and it should be protected. Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2007,S 1348. Labor/Shipbuilding The IBEW supported an increase in funding of $60 million in FY08 for the Title XI Ship Loan Guarantee Program. This program provides affordable financing for domestic small and medium ship construction. Our domestic ship construction industry needs to be preserved, not only to ensure that America retains a shipbuilding capacity, but also to continue to maintain a work force capable of meeting building ship needs and not to rely on foreign sources for U.S. ship needs. No bill reference at this time. Labor/Minimum Wage The IBEW supports passage of the minimum wage bills to increase wages (minimum wage had not been raised since 1997). The bills would increase minimum wage from $5.15 an hour to $7.25 an hour over two years. This is about economic justice for all workers. Bill Ref. HR 2/S 2, Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007. with a union that demonstrate majority support without going through the elaborate election procedures that are now required. Bill reference: HR 800, Employee Free Choice Act of 2007; House Res. 203, to amend the National Labor Relations Act to establish an efficient system to enable employees to form, join, or assist labor organizations, to provide for mandatory injunctions for unfair labor practices during organizing efforts, and for other purposes (Rept. 110-26); Amend Section 9(c) of the National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 159(c)); S. 1041, Employee Free Choice Act of 2007. Labor/Misclassification of Employees The IBEW is opposed to unscrupulous employers who dodge federal tax and labor laws by wrongfully classifying their employees as independent contractors, and objects to those employers who claim to be an independent contractor and refuse to withhold taxes from the worker’s pay, and sends a Form 1099 instead of a W-2 to the IRS. Workers are forced to pay their own taxes and are deprived of virtually all labor protections despite having a traditional employer-employee relationship on-the-job. Bill Ref.: (Draft Bill) Labor/Locks & Dams The IBEW urged the retention of Sec. 3403 in the final version of the FY07 Supplemental Appropriations Bill, to prevent the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from reducing (downsizing and reorganizing staff) operations within the Civil Engineering Program (CEP) of the Coast Guard, except if authorized by Congress. Use of High Performing Organization (HPO) without first subjecting the proposed cutting cost changes to a public-private competition process, would jeopardize CEP’s mission. The provision in Section 3403 would prevent the DHS from taking action to alter or reduce operations within the CEP of the Coast Guard, except as specifically authorized by Congress. HR 1591, Fiscal 2007 Emergency Iraq/Hurricane Supplemental Appropriations. Labor/NSPS The IBEW supports a provision prohibiting the expenditure of federal funds on those portions of Department of Defense (DoD) Civilian National Security Personnel System (NSPS) ruled illegal in Federal District Court. The IBEW supports stripping any proposed language that includes NSPS, and restoration of collective bargaining rights and access to the appeals process to federal workers. Ref.: HR 1585, FY 2008 Defense Authorization [Any Specific Section References?] Labor/Water Fund The IBEW strongly opposed stripping the Davis-Bacon provision requiring workers on federal construction projects to be paid the local prevailing wage. This requirement aims to protect workers on projects financed by either state or federal funds. Bill Ref.: HR 720, Water Quality Financing Act of 2007. The Davis-Bacon wage requirements of subchapter IV of chapter 31 of title 40, United States Code. Labor/EFCA The IBEW supports a system to enable employees to form a union by joining together in unions to bargain for better wages and benefits and would require an employer to bargain (in good faith)

* The IBEW lobbied Congress to oppose the Panama, Peru, Columbia, and South Korea Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). The IBEW also urged Congress to oppose renewal of presidential Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), better known as "fast track." Finally, to address the problem of currency manipulation, the IBEW urged support for the Fair Currency Act of 2007 (H.R. 782). Regarding another trade-based issue, the IBEW supported the Trade and Globalization Assistance Act of 2007 (S. 3920). This legislation expands Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) to include service workers; rewards states that modernize their unemployment insurance (UI) systems; and contains improvements to the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act. Regarding another trade-based issue, the IBEW supported the Trade and Globalization Assistance Act of 2007 (S. 3920). This legislation expands Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) to include service workers; rewards states that modernize their unemployment insurance (UI) systems; and contains improvements to the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act.

This includes the recently signed Panama, Peru, Columbia, and South Korea free trade agreements and opposed to the renewal of presidential fast track Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). IBEW supports addressing the problem of currency manipulation with China and Japan. Bill Ref.: HR 782/S 796, Fair Currency Act of 2007; HR 2942, Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act of 2007. The IBEW is opposed to all new free trade agreements negotiated under the failed NAFTA/CAFTA template.

Labor/Immigration The IBEW opposes a provision in the bill that would permit hundreds of thousands of temporary foreign workers to enter the country each year, ultimately expanding guest workers to over 3 million in 10 years. Temporary guest worker programs without any credible wage protections (Davis-Bacon) or other labor protections such as OSHA, and Workers’ Compensation is unacceptable. Driving down wages and living standards for American workers is not in the best interest of American workers and deviates from a long-held American value that anyone who arrives on our shores legally be afforded a path to citizenship. Americans have earned a middle-class lifestyle and it should be protected. Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2007,S 1348. Labor/Shipbuilding The IBEW supported an increase in funding of $60 million in FY08 for the Title XI Ship Loan Guarantee Program. This program provides affordable financing for domestic small and medium ship construction. Our domestic ship construction industry needs to be preserved, not only to ensure that America retains a shipbuilding capacity, but also to continue to maintain a work force capable of meeting building ship needs and not to rely on foreign sources for U.S. ship needs. No bill reference at this time. Labor/Minimum Wage The IBEW supports passage of the minimum wage bills to increase wages (minimum wage had not been raised since 1997). The bills would increase minimum wage from $5.15 an hour to $7.25 an hour over two years. This is about economic justice for all workers. Bill Ref. HR 2/S 2, Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007. with a union that demonstrate majority support without going through the elaborate election procedures that are now required. Bill reference: HR 800, Employee Free Choice Act of 2007; House Res. 203, to amend the National Labor Relations Act to establish an efficient system to enable employees to form, join, or assist labor organizations, to provide for mandatory injunctions for unfair labor practices during organizing efforts, and for other purposes (Rept. 110-26); Amend Section 9(c) of the National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 159(c)); S. 1041, Employee Free Choice Act of 2007. Labor/Misclassification of Employees The IBEW is opposed to unscrupulous employers who dodge federal tax and labor laws by wrongfully classifying their employees as independent contractors, and objects to those employers who claim to be an independent contractor and refuse to withhold taxes from the worker’s pay, and sends a Form 1099 instead of a W-2 to the IRS. Workers are forced to pay their own taxes and are deprived of virtually all labor protections despite having a traditional employer-employee relationship on-the-job. Bill Ref.: (Draft Bill) Labor/Locks & Dams The IBEW urged the retention of Sec. 3403 in the final version of the FY07 Supplemental Appropriations Bill, to prevent the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from reducing (downsizing and reorganizing staff) operations within the Civil Engineering Program (CEP) of the Coast Guard, except if authorized by Congress. Use of High Performing Organization (HPO) without first subjecting the proposed cutting cost changes to a public-private competition process, would jeopardize CEP’s mission. The provision in Section 3403 would prevent the DHS from taking action to alter or reduce operations within the CEP of the Coast Guard, except as specifically authorized by Congress. HR 1591, Fiscal 2007 Emergency Iraq/Hurricane Supplemental Appropriations. Labor/NSPS The IBEW supports a provision prohibiting the expenditure of federal funds on those portions of Department of Defense (DoD) Civilian National Security Personnel System (NSPS) ruled illegal in Federal District Court. The IBEW supports stripping any proposed language that includes NSPS, and restoration of collective bargaining rights and access to the appeals process to federal workers. Ref.: HR 1585, FY 2008 Defense Authorization [Any Specific Section References?] Labor/Water Fund The IBEW strongly opposed stripping the Davis-Bacon provision requiring workers on federal construction projects to be paid the local prevailing wage. This requirement aims to protect workers on projects financed by either state or federal funds. Bill Ref.: HR 720, Water Quality Financing Act of 2007. The Davis-Bacon wage requirements of subchapter IV of chapter 31 of title 40, United States Code. Labor/EFCA The IBEW supports a system to enable employees to form a union by joining together in unions to bargain for better wages and benefits and would require an employer to bargain (in good faith)

This legislation requires that the General Accounting Office (GAO) and Small Business Administration (SBA) develop methodology for measuring broadband cost, speed and comparability with other nations. Current Federal Communications Commission (FCC) definitions and data concerning broadband internet service are inadequate in this rapidly changing environment. Universal broadband adoption would create more than a million new jobs. Ref. S. 1492, Broadband Data Improvement Act. Telecom/Broadband The IBEW supports the Broadband Data Improvement Act.

Labor/Telecommunications: The IBEW urged Congress to pass the Broadband Data Improvement Act (S. 1492), legislation that would improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services.

of the Energy Policy Reform and Revitalization Act of 2007(EPAct 2005). IBEW opposed U.S. Department of Energy project redesign proposal in the FY2008 Energy and Water Appropriations (HR 2641). IBEW opposed any attempts to block funding for the development of National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors NIETCs) in EPAct 2005. Energy/FutureGen IBEW supports DoE’s proposed FutureGen coal-based, hydrogen-producing, zero-emissions demonstration power plant project but opposes any appropriations to redesign the project. FutureGen will help foster our nation’s twin goals of energy independence and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and ensures the continued use of America’s most abundant and widely used fuel for electricity production – coal. It will also provide a commercial-scale integration of advanced technology designed to gasify a variety of coal types while testing carbon capture and storage in deep-geologic, saline formations. It is a step in the right direction for energy independence and clean-coal technology. Bill Ref.: FY2008 Energy and Water Appropriations Bill (H.R. 2641). Energy/Climate Change The IBEW supports addressing global climate change with a reasonable and balanced approach that assures abundant, affordable energy supplies and does not undermine economic growth or diminish good paying jobs for our workers. For purposes of coal-fired electric generating units IBEW supports existing federal cap-and-trade programs so that the point of regulation is the same as the point of allowance allocation.: S. 1766, Low Carbon Economy Act. Energy Policy Act of 2005; IBEW opposed any attempts to modify or repeal Sec. 368 and supported Section 1221

Labor/Energy - Environment: The IBEW supported the Low Carbon Economy Act of 2007 (S. 1766), also known as the Bingamen-Specter climate change bill. The bill mandates a cap on carbon emissions along with a system for trading carbon allowances in a program known as "cap and trade." Furthermore, the legislation insists that our trading partners also take steps to lower their greenhouse gas emissions.

Labor/Immigration The IBEW opposes a provision in the bill that would permit hundreds of thousands of temporary foreign workers to enter the country each year, ultimately expanding guest workers to over 3 million in 10 years. Temporary guest worker programs without any credible wage protections (Davis-Bacon) or other labor protections such as OSHA, and Workers’ Compensation is unacceptable. Driving down wages and living standards for American workers is not in the best interest of American workers and deviates from a long-held American value that anyone who arrives on our shores legally be afforded a path to citizenship. Americans have earned a middle-class lifestyle and it should be protected. Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2007,S 1348. Labor/Shipbuilding The IBEW supported an increase in funding of $60 million in FY08 for the Title XI Ship Loan Guarantee Program. This program provides affordable financing for domestic small and medium ship construction. Our domestic ship construction industry needs to be preserved, not only to ensure that America retains a shipbuilding capacity, but also to continue to maintain a work force capable of meeting building ship needs and not to rely on foreign sources for U.S. ship needs. No bill reference at this time. Labor/Minimum Wage The IBEW supports passage of the minimum wage bills to increase wages (minimum wage had not been raised since 1997). The bills would increase minimum wage from $5.15 an hour to $7.25 an hour over two years. This is about economic justice for all workers. Bill Ref. HR 2/S 2, Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007. with a union that demonstrate majority support without going through the elaborate election procedures that are now required. Bill reference: HR 800, Employee Free Choice Act of 2007; House Res. 203, to amend the National Labor Relations Act to establish an efficient system to enable employees to form, join, or assist labor organizations, to provide for mandatory injunctions for unfair labor practices during organizing efforts, and for other purposes (Rept. 110-26); Amend Section 9(c) of the National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 159(c)); S. 1041, Employee Free Choice Act of 2007. Labor/Misclassification of Employees The IBEW is opposed to unscrupulous employers who dodge federal tax and labor laws by wrongfully classifying their employees as independent contractors, and objects to those employers who claim to be an independent contractor and refuse to withhold taxes from the worker’s pay, and sends a Form 1099 instead of a W-2 to the IRS. Workers are forced to pay their own taxes and are deprived of virtually all labor protections despite having a traditional employer-employee relationship on-the-job. Bill Ref.: (Draft Bill) Labor/Locks & Dams The IBEW urged the retention of Sec. 3403 in the final version of the FY07 Supplemental Appropriations Bill, to prevent the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from reducing (downsizing and reorganizing staff) operations within the Civil Engineering Program (CEP) of the Coast Guard, except if authorized by Congress. Use of High Performing Organization (HPO) without first subjecting the proposed cutting cost changes to a public-private competition process, would jeopardize CEP’s mission. The provision in Section 3403 would prevent the DHS from taking action to alter or reduce operations within the CEP of the Coast Guard, except as specifically authorized by Congress. HR 1591, Fiscal 2007 Emergency Iraq/Hurricane Supplemental Appropriations. Labor/NSPS The IBEW supports a provision prohibiting the expenditure of federal funds on those portions of Department of Defense (DoD) Civilian National Security Personnel System (NSPS) ruled illegal in Federal District Court. The IBEW supports stripping any proposed language that includes NSPS, and restoration of collective bargaining rights and access to the appeals process to federal workers. Ref.: HR 1585, FY 2008 Defense Authorization [Any Specific Section References?] Labor/Water Fund The IBEW strongly opposed stripping the Davis-Bacon provision requiring workers on federal construction projects to be paid the local prevailing wage. This requirement aims to protect workers on projects financed by either state or federal funds. Bill Ref.: HR 720, Water Quality Financing Act of 2007. The Davis-Bacon wage requirements of subchapter IV of chapter 31 of title 40, United States Code. Labor/EFCA The IBEW supports a system to enable employees to form a union by joining together in unions to bargain for better wages and benefits and would require an employer to bargain (in good faith)

This includes the recently signed Panama, Peru, Columbia, and South Korea free trade agreements and opposed to the renewal of presidential fast track Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). IBEW supports addressing the problem of currency manipulation with China and Japan. Bill Ref.: HR 782/S 796, Fair Currency Act of 2007; HR 2942, Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act of 2007. The IBEW is opposed to all new free trade agreements negotiated under the failed NAFTA/CAFTA template.

Labor/Immigration The IBEW opposes a provision in the bill that would permit hundreds of thousands of temporary foreign workers to enter the country each year, ultimately expanding guest workers to over 3 million in 10 years. Temporary guest worker programs without any credible wage protections (Davis-Bacon) or other labor protections such as OSHA, and Workers’ Compensation is unacceptable. Driving down wages and living standards for American workers is not in the best interest of American workers and deviates from a long-held American value that anyone who arrives on our shores legally be afforded a path to citizenship. Americans have earned a middle-class lifestyle and it should be protected. Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2007,S 1348. Labor/Shipbuilding The IBEW supported an increase in funding of $60 million in FY08 for the Title XI Ship Loan Guarantee Program. This program provides affordable financing for domestic small and medium ship construction. Our domestic ship construction industry needs to be preserved, not only to ensure that America retains a shipbuilding capacity, but also to continue to maintain a work force capable of meeting building ship needs and not to rely on foreign sources for U.S. ship needs. No bill reference at this time. Labor/Minimum Wage The IBEW supports passage of the minimum wage bills to increase wages (minimum wage had not been raised since 1997). The bills would increase minimum wage from $5.15 an hour to $7.25 an hour over two years. This is about economic justice for all workers. Bill Ref. HR 2/S 2, Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007. with a union that demonstrate majority support without going through the elaborate election procedures that are now required. Bill reference: HR 800, Employee Free Choice Act of 2007; House Res. 203, to amend the National Labor Relations Act to establish an efficient system to enable employees to form, join, or assist labor organizations, to provide for mandatory injunctions for unfair labor practices during organizing efforts, and for other purposes (Rept. 110-26); Amend Section 9(c) of the National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 159(c)); S. 1041, Employee Free Choice Act of 2007. Labor/Misclassification of Employees The IBEW is opposed to unscrupulous employers who dodge federal tax and labor laws by wrongfully classifying their employees as independent contractors, and objects to those employers who claim to be an independent contractor and refuse to withhold taxes from the worker’s pay, and sends a Form 1099 instead of a W-2 to the IRS. Workers are forced to pay their own taxes and are deprived of virtually all labor protections despite having a traditional employer-employee relationship on-the-job. Bill Ref.: (Draft Bill) Labor/Locks & Dams The IBEW urged the retention of Sec. 3403 in the final version of the FY07 Supplemental Appropriations Bill, to prevent the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from reducing (downsizing and reorganizing staff) operations within the Civil Engineering Program (CEP) of the Coast Guard, except if authorized by Congress. Use of High Performing Organization (HPO) without first subjecting the proposed cutting cost changes to a public-private competition process, would jeopardize CEP’s mission. The provision in Section 3403 would prevent the DHS from taking action to alter or reduce operations within the CEP of the Coast Guard, except as specifically authorized by Congress. HR 1591, Fiscal 2007 Emergency Iraq/Hurricane Supplemental Appropriations. Labor/NSPS The IBEW supports a provision prohibiting the expenditure of federal funds on those portions of Department of Defense (DoD) Civilian National Security Personnel System (NSPS) ruled illegal in Federal District Court. The IBEW supports stripping any proposed language that includes NSPS, and restoration of collective bargaining rights and access to the appeals process to federal workers. Ref.: HR 1585, FY 2008 Defense Authorization [Any Specific Section References?] Labor/Water Fund The IBEW strongly opposed stripping the Davis-Bacon provision requiring workers on federal construction projects to be paid the local prevailing wage. This requirement aims to protect workers on projects financed by either state or federal funds. Bill Ref.: HR 720, Water Quality Financing Act of 2007. The Davis-Bacon wage requirements of subchapter IV of chapter 31 of title 40, United States Code. Labor/EFCA The IBEW supports a system to enable employees to form a union by joining together in unions to bargain for better wages and benefits and would require an employer to bargain (in good faith)

The IBEW opposed any amendments to the Senate Draft Energy bill that would repeal the Public Utility Holding Company Act (PUHCA) of 1935. Market manipulation and failed deregulation policies have devastated the electric utility industry, workers, investors, and consumers resulting in job losses. Ref. S. 10, The Energy Policy Act of 2005. HR. 6, Energy Policy Act of 2005 (Ltr.04/20/05; 05/18/05) The IBEW supported the Feingold/Brownback Amendment (SA 796) to S. 10, “The Energy Policy Act of 2005.” “The Fair Competition and Financial Integrity” or “ring fencing” amendment will provide the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) with specific authority to address unfair competition arising from cross-subsidization and cost-shifting in transactions between a public utility and its unregulated affiliates. Under the proposed amendment, FERC would be empowered to develop rules establishing a “firewall” between a utility and its unregulated affiliates. Ltr. 06/22/05

The IBEW is opposed to privatization or any change to the Social Security System that would compromise this Trust Fund. The Administration’s plan contains key elements that would allow workers to divert part of their payroll taxes (FICA) into private accounts and change the formula under which benefits are calculated. The impact of these proposals would affect retirees on fixed incomes, and amount to taking a huge gamble on the types of investments that workers made throughout their working careers. Mistakes in investment strategy could result in reduced market returns or financial ruin. Ref. Social Security Benefits Tax Relief Act (HR 1517), Stop the Raid on Social Security Act of 2005 (S. 1302), Social Security Right to Know (S. 274).

The Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA), which covers agreements with Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua, does not include protections for workers’ rights to form a union or to enjoy safe working conditions on the job. It does not include adequate enforcement mechanisms for violations of internationally recognized labor and environmental standards. It is about outsourcing jobs and losing our economic base. Bill Ref.: to Implement the Dominican Republic-Central American Free Trade Agreement (H.R. 3045/S.1307)Ltr. 07/22/05

The IBEW supported S. 131, the Clear Skies Act of 2005, legislation that will promote coal, a domestic source of energy, while mandating a reduction in harmful emissions from the use of coal to generate electricity, and will produce good paying jobs.

IBEW urges rejection of any proposal that would attempt to cut Social Security benefits or otherwise hurt workers in risky privatized Social Security finance accounts, or raise the retirement age, which already is scheduled to increase to 67. The IBEW position is that forcing workers to stay on the job even longer to collect the benefits they have spent years paying for would be cruel and unnecessary. It is also inconceivable that workers in physically demanding jobs, as is the case with a large number of IBEW members, would be forced to work longer by increasing the retirement age. Chairman William Thomas was expected to include Social Security privatization in the Pension Protection Act of 2005 (H.R. 2830), but did not. Thus, it appears that the Social Security issue is dead for now. The general political climate has thwarted any desire to implement the president’s scheme. The IBEW took no position on H.R. 2830, the “Pension Protection Act of 2005,” or S. 1783, the “Pension Security and Transparency Act of 2005” understanding that the ultimate effect of the proposed bills would encourage employers to cease offering their employees a defined benefit pension. Rather, the IBEW lobbied to urge the inclusion of two separate provisions to the bill. The first was for multi-employer pension plan reform as proposed by the Multi-Employer Pension Plan Coalition, a group of employers and unions involved in the construction, trucking, and food service industries. The second was for a two-part change to Section 420 of the Internal Revenue Code as outlined in S. 1573 the “Retiree Health Benefits Act of 2005.” The language of S. 1573 is included in S. 1783. The language proposes two changes to Section 420 of the Internal Revenue Code to ensure that retirees, such as those at Lucent Technologies [an IBEW/Communication Workers of America (CWA) employer], will continue to receive retiree health care benefits. First, the bill would permit substituting the statutorily mandated maintenance-of-cost requirement with the retiree health care benefits as negotiated under the collective bargaining agreement between IBEW/CWA and Lucent Technologies. Second, the proposed legislation would permit Lucent to pre-fund a retiree health care trust by providing an exception from the current-law restriction that allows a transfer to fund retiree health care costs for only the current year. Enactment of this legislation is vital to the retirement security of approximately 117,000 retirees and their dependents. Changes to Section 420 is a collaborative labor/management effort. [Ltr. 9/29/05]

IBEW urges rejection of any proposal that would attempt to cut Social Security benefits or otherwise hurt workers in risky privatized Social Security finance accounts, or raise the retirement age, which already is scheduled to increase to 67. The IBEW position is that forcing workers to stay on the job even longer to collect the benefits they have spent years paying for would be cruel and unnecessary. It is also inconceivable that workers in physically demanding jobs, as is the case with a large number of IBEW members, would be forced to work longer by increasing the retirement age. Chairman William Thomas was expected to include Social Security privatization in the Pension Protection Act of 2005 (H.R. 2830), but did not. Thus, it appears that the Social Security issue is dead for now. The general political climate has thwarted any desire to implement the president’s scheme. The IBEW took no position on H.R. 2830, the “Pension Protection Act of 2005,” or S. 1783, the “Pension Security and Transparency Act of 2005” understanding that the ultimate effect of the proposed bills would encourage employers to cease offering their employees a defined benefit pension. Rather, the IBEW lobbied to urge the inclusion of two separate provisions to the bill. The first was for multi-employer pension plan reform as proposed by the Multi-Employer Pension Plan Coalition, a group of employers and unions involved in the construction, trucking, and food service industries. The second was for a two-part change to Section 420 of the Internal Revenue Code as outlined in S. 1573 the “Retiree Health Benefits Act of 2005.” The language of S. 1573 is included in S. 1783. The language proposes two changes to Section 420 of the Internal Revenue Code to ensure that retirees, such as those at Lucent Technologies [an IBEW/Communication Workers of America (CWA) employer], will continue to receive retiree health care benefits. First, the bill would permit substituting the statutorily mandated maintenance-of-cost requirement with the retiree health care benefits as negotiated under the collective bargaining agreement between IBEW/CWA and Lucent Technologies. Second, the proposed legislation would permit Lucent to pre-fund a retiree health care trust by providing an exception from the current-law restriction that allows a transfer to fund retiree health care costs for only the current year. Enactment of this legislation is vital to the retirement security of approximately 117,000 retirees and their dependents. Changes to Section 420 is a collaborative labor/management effort. [Ltr. 9/29/05]

The IBEW is opposed to privatization or any change to the Social Security System that would compromise this Trust Fund. The Administration’s plan contains key elements that would allow workers to divert part of their payroll taxes (FICA) into private accounts and change the formula under which benefits are calculated. The impact of these proposals would affect retirees on fixed incomes, and amount to taking a huge gamble on the types of investments that workers made throughout their working careers. Mistakes in investment strategy could result in reduced market returns or financial ruin. Ref. Social Security Benefits Tax Relief Act (HR 1517), Stop the Raid on Social Security Act of 2005 (S. 1302), Social Security Right to Know (S. 274).

The IBEW supported an amendment offered by Senators Ted Kennedy (D-MA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) to the so-called Class Action Fairness Act of 2005 (S. 5), that would “carve-out” state wage & hour and civil rights class actions from proposed legislation. State wage & hour laws generally provide more complete and timely remedies for victims of unscrupulous employers than the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). In the absence of a carve-out, many cases will be forced into federal court where they face needless delays and less favorable procedures. Many cases will be disqualified as a class, leaving victims on their own in attempts to recover lost wages.

The IBEW supports legislation that would negotiate a fair compensation system for Asbestos victims. The asbestos proposals present concerns with regard to evidentiary burdens that are difficult to meet; restrictive medical criteria that are more stringent than those in other bankruptcy trusts; inadequate levels of compensation that are far lower than what victims now receive; pre-empts asbestos-related compensation for railroad workers covered by Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA); creates a new asbestos court with broad, non-reviewable powers; and impose an absolute cap on companies' liability, leaving workers to bear all the risk if claims projections are exceeded. Court costs and lawyers’ fees take a good portion of current asbestos awards, leaving thousands of workers who have suffered without a fair resolution. Bill Ref. S. 852, Fairness in Asbestos Injury Resolution Act of 2005 (FAIR Act), S. 668, Asbestos Standards Enforcement Act of 2005, S. Res. 43, National Asbestos Awareness Resolution.

The IBEW supported an amendment by Senator Ted Kennedy (D-MA) to the Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, (S. 256) that would have raised the minimum wage from $5.15 an hour to $7.25 an hour. The IBEW opposed an amendment by Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA) that would have raised the minimum wage to $6.25 an hour. The amendment would have destroyed the 40-hour workweek by replacing it with an 80-hour over a two-week work period. It would have also removed up to 10 million workers from protection under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FSLA). The IBEW supports the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA) - H.R.1696/S.842. EFCA will strengthen protections for workers' freedom to form unions by requiring employers to recognize a union once a majority of workers sign cards authorizing union representation. It also provides for mediation and arbitration of first-contract disputes and authorizes stronger penalties for employers that violate the legal rights of workers seeking to form unions or negotiate first contracts.

The IBEW supports legislation that would negotiate a fair compensation system for Asbestos victims. The asbestos proposals present concerns with regard to evidentiary burdens that are difficult to meet; restrictive medical criteria that are more stringent than those in other bankruptcy trusts; inadequate levels of compensation that are far lower than what victims now receive; pre-empts asbestos-related compensation for railroad workers covered by Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA); creates a new asbestos court with broad, non-reviewable powers; and impose an absolute cap on companies' liability, leaving workers to bear all the risk if claims projections are exceeded. Court costs and lawyers’ fees take a good portion of current asbestos awards, leaving thousands of workers who have suffered without a fair resolution. Bill Ref. S. 852, Fairness in Asbestos Injury Resolution Act of 2005 (FAIR Act), S. 668, Asbestos Standards Enforcement Act of 2005, S. Res. 43, National Asbestos Awareness Resolution.

The IBEW supported inclusion of language to the Fiscal 2006 Defense Authorization bill (H.R. 1815/S. 1042) to limit the practice of leasing foreign-built ships by the Department of Defense (DOD) to not longer than 24 months to meet military requirements. This practice does not sustain the shipbuilding industrial manufacturing base in the U.S., and results in lost jobs, loss of skilled craftsmanship, and low rates of naval ship production. Other bill references: H Con. Res. 95/S. Con. Res. 18, Fiscal 2006 Congressional Budget Resolution. (Ltr. 4/7/05) The IBEW opposed new personnel rules proposed by the Department of Defense (DOD). These new rules, National Security Personnel System (NSPS), eliminates collective bargaining rights and the pay systems for DOD workers, and do not take into account the substantial involvement of its employees' unions as required by law, in direct violation of the law. (No bill reference).

The IBEW urged support for adding $30 million of contract authority funding to the congestion relief program created by the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) and extended by section 5403 of the Transportation Equity Act, H.R. 3 (TEA-LU). The Senate version of this program (section 2105) adds only $22.3 million. Re-bidding the existing contract and starting over would cause delays, reduce highway safety and lead to loss of good-paying union jobs. The IBEW supported an amendment by Senator Robert Byrd, (D-WV) to the FY 2006 Congressional Budget Resolution (S. Con. Res. 18) that would allow $1.04 billion in fiscal 2006 funding for Amtrak, and increase the fiscal 2006 discretionary spending limit by $1.04 billion. IBEW opposes privatizing of Amtrak.

The IBEW urged support of Davis-Bacon wage rates for school construction when new funding mechanisms are used to "creatively finance" construction. In the past several years there has been a move away from traditional direct financing such as credit enhancements, tax credits, tax-exempt bonds and state infrastructure banks (SIBs). Davis-Bacon protections prevent contractors from competing based on cutting wages and benefits. Contractors on federal projects must pay their workers the wage rates prevailing in the community for each craft, as determined by the U.S. Department of Labor. Davis-Bacon wage rates are not union pay scale, they are rates based upon a broad Department of Labor wage survey taken in local areas. Bill Ref.: HR 1840-School Construction; HR 4252-School Construction; HR 599-School Infrastructure The IBEW supported an amendment to carve-out civil rights and wage & hour cases in the Class Action Fairness Act of 2004. It is important that civil rights & wage and hour class actions filed in state courts remain in state courts. State wage & hour laws provide more complete and timely remedies for victims of unscrupulous employers than the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). In the absence of a carve-out, many of these cases would be forced into federal court, where they will face delays and less favorable procedures. It is generally more difficult and time-consuming to certify a class action case in federal court than in state court and state civil rights laws often afford greater protection than federal law. Bill Reference – S. 2062 (Ltr. 7/6/04) The IBEW supported the Employee Free Choice Act because unions give working people a voice on the job that brings them better pay and benefits, dignity and respect in the workplace. Employers routinely block workers from exercising their rights. This legislation would restore workers' freedom to form unions by ensuring that when a majority of workers decide to form a union they can do so, without intimidation, harassment and delaying tactics by the employer. It would provide for certification of a union if the NLRB finds that a majority of employees have signed cards (“card check”) indicating their preference for representation. It also requires first contract mediation and arbitration if the employer and union aren’t able to reach an agreement within 90 days and institutes strict penalties for employer violations while workers are attempting to organize or obtain a first contract. Bill Ref. H.R. 3619/S. 1925 The IBEW opposed the final regulations written by the Department of Labor (DOL) to change federal overtime pay rules that took effect on August 23. Eliminating overtime pay eligibility is a pay cut that hurts America's working families already harmed by widespread joblessness, stagnant or declining wages, increased health care and prescription drug costs. Overtime laws guaranteed that extra work will be rewarded with increased pay. These job protections were won after decades of struggles with passage of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in 1938. Bill Ref. H.R. 2600, amendment to the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2004 (to block the DOL from using funds to implement the new overtime rules). The IBEW supported a provision in H.R. 4200 that prevents the Department of Defense (DOD) from continuing long-term leasing of foreign-built ships for transporting supplies for our troops. DOD’s leasing of foreign-built ships for up to ten years at a time allows our own shipbuilding industry to decline, leaving inexperienced workers to build the next generation of ships for the U.S. Navy if we allow shipbuilding to continue to be outsourced. Ref. Ronald W. Reagan Nat. Defense Authorization Act. The IBEW opposed expansion of the H-1B and H-2B Visa Programs. As American jobs are being outsourced, expanding this program would bring more foreign workers to take American jobs. Bill Ref. H.R. 2688, Amend Immigration and Nationality Act to Repeal Authorities Relating to H1-B Visas for Temporary Workers. The IBEW supported an additional 13-week extension of unemployment benefits. Bill Ref. H.R. 1652, S. 1943, S. 1708,Unemployment Compensation Extension Act; H.R. 3244, Emergency Unemployment Compensation The IBEW supported raising the minimum wage. Future increases to the minimum wage should be indexed to inflation, as is Social Security. The $5.15 minimum wage in effect today needs this fix to keep up with the ever-increasing prices needed to support working families. Bill Ref. H.R. 5043, Minimum Wage Indexation; H.R. 4256/S. 2370, Fair Minimum Wage Act.

The IBEW urged support of Davis-Bacon wage rates for school construction when new funding mechanisms are used to "creatively finance" construction. In the past several years there has been a move away from traditional direct financing such as credit enhancements, tax credits, tax-exempt bonds and state infrastructure banks (SIBs). Davis-Bacon protections prevent contractors from competing based on cutting wages and benefits. Contractors on federal projects must pay their workers the wage rates prevailing in the community for each craft, as determined by the U.S. Department of Labor. Davis-Bacon wage rates are not union pay scale, they are rates based upon a broad Department of Labor wage survey taken in local areas. Bill Ref.: HR 1840-School Construction; HR 4252-School Construction; HR 599-School Infrastructure The IBEW supported an amendment to carve-out civil rights and wage & hour cases in the Class Action Fairness Act of 2004. It is important that civil rights & wage and hour class actions filed in state courts remain in state courts. State wage & hour laws provide more complete and timely remedies for victims of unscrupulous employers than the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). In the absence of a carve-out, many of these cases would be forced into federal court, where they will face delays and less favorable procedures. It is generally more difficult and time-consuming to certify a class action case in federal court than in state court and state civil rights laws often afford greater protection than federal law. Bill Reference – S. 2062 (Ltr. 7/6/04) The IBEW supported the Employee Free Choice Act because unions give working people a voice on the job that brings them better pay and benefits, dignity and respect in the workplace. Employers routinely block workers from exercising their rights. This legislation would restore workers' freedom to form unions by ensuring that when a majority of workers decide to form a union they can do so, without intimidation, harassment and delaying tactics by the employer. It would provide for certification of a union if the NLRB finds that a majority of employees have signed cards (“card check”) indicating their preference for representation. It also requires first contract mediation and arbitration if the employer and union aren’t able to reach an agreement within 90 days and institutes strict penalties for employer violations while workers are attempting to organize or obtain a first contract. Bill Ref. H.R. 3619/S. 1925 The IBEW opposed the final regulations written by the Department of Labor (DOL) to change federal overtime pay rules that took effect on August 23. Eliminating overtime pay eligibility is a pay cut that hurts America's working families already harmed by widespread joblessness, stagnant or declining wages, increased health care and prescription drug costs. Overtime laws guaranteed that extra work will be rewarded with increased pay. These job protections were won after decades of struggles with passage of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in 1938. Bill Ref. H.R. 2600, amendment to the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2004 (to block the DOL from using funds to implement the new overtime rules). The IBEW supported a provision in H.R. 4200 that prevents the Department of Defense (DOD) from continuing long-term leasing of foreign-built ships for transporting supplies for our troops. DOD’s leasing of foreign-built ships for up to ten years at a time allows our own shipbuilding industry to decline, leaving inexperienced workers to build the next generation of ships for the U.S. Navy if we allow shipbuilding to continue to be outsourced. Ref. Ronald W. Reagan Nat. Defense Authorization Act. The IBEW opposed expansion of the H-1B and H-2B Visa Programs. As American jobs are being outsourced, expanding this program would bring more foreign workers to take American jobs. Bill Ref. H.R. 2688, Amend Immigration and Nationality Act to Repeal Authorities Relating to H1-B Visas for Temporary Workers. The IBEW supported an additional 13-week extension of unemployment benefits. Bill Ref. H.R. 1652, S. 1943, S. 1708,Unemployment Compensation Extension Act; H.R. 3244, Emergency Unemployment Compensation The IBEW supported raising the minimum wage. Future increases to the minimum wage should be indexed to inflation, as is Social Security. The $5.15 minimum wage in effect today needs this fix to keep up with the ever-increasing prices needed to support working families. Bill Ref. H.R. 5043, Minimum Wage Indexation; H.R. 4256/S. 2370, Fair Minimum Wage Act.

The IBEW urged support of Davis-Bacon wage rates for school construction when new funding mechanisms are used to "creatively finance" construction. In the past several years there has been a move away from traditional direct financing such as credit enhancements, tax credits, tax-exempt bonds and state infrastructure banks (SIBs). Davis-Bacon protections prevent contractors from competing based on cutting wages and benefits. Contractors on federal projects must pay their workers the wage rates prevailing in the community for each craft, as determined by the U.S. Department of Labor. Davis-Bacon wage rates are not union pay scale, they are rates based upon a broad Department of Labor wage survey taken in local areas. Bill Ref.: HR 1840-School Construction; HR 4252-School Construction; HR 599-School Infrastructure The IBEW supported an amendment to carve-out civil rights and wage & hour cases in the Class Action Fairness Act of 2004. It is important that civil rights & wage and hour class actions filed in state courts remain in state courts. State wage & hour laws provide more complete and timely remedies for victims of unscrupulous employers than the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). In the absence of a carve-out, many of these cases would be forced into federal court, where they will face delays and less favorable procedures. It is generally more difficult and time-consuming to certify a class action case in federal court than in state court and state civil rights laws often afford greater protection than federal law. Bill Reference – S. 2062 (Ltr. 7/6/04) The IBEW supported the Employee Free Choice Act because unions give working people a voice on the job that brings them better pay and benefits, dignity and respect in the workplace. Employers routinely block workers from exercising their rights. This legislation would restore workers' freedom to form unions by ensuring that when a majority of workers decide to form a union they can do so, without intimidation, harassment and delaying tactics by the employer. It would provide for certification of a union if the NLRB finds that a majority of employees have signed cards (“card check”) indicating their preference for representation. It also requires first contract mediation and arbitration if the employer and union aren’t able to reach an agreement within 90 days and institutes strict penalties for employer violations while workers are attempting to organize or obtain a first contract. Bill Ref. H.R. 3619/S. 1925 The IBEW opposed the final regulations written by the Department of Labor (DOL) to change federal overtime pay rules that took effect on August 23. Eliminating overtime pay eligibility is a pay cut that hurts America's working families already harmed by widespread joblessness, stagnant or declining wages, increased health care and prescription drug costs. Overtime laws guaranteed that extra work will be rewarded with increased pay. These job protections were won after decades of struggles with passage of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in 1938. Bill Ref. H.R. 2600, amendment to the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2004 (to block the DOL from using funds to implement the new overtime rules). The IBEW supported a provision in H.R. 4200 that prevents the Department of Defense (DOD) from continuing long-term leasing of foreign-built ships for transporting supplies for our troops. DOD’s leasing of foreign-built ships for up to ten years at a time allows our own shipbuilding industry to decline, leaving inexperienced workers to build the next generation of ships for the U.S. Navy if we allow shipbuilding to continue to be outsourced. Ref. Ronald W. Reagan Nat. Defense Authorization Act. The IBEW opposed expansion of the H-1B and H-2B Visa Programs. As American jobs are being outsourced, expanding this program would bring more foreign workers to take American jobs. Bill Ref. H.R. 2688, Amend Immigration and Nationality Act to Repeal Authorities Relating to H1-B Visas for Temporary Workers. The IBEW supported an additional 13-week extension of unemployment benefits. Bill Ref. H.R. 1652, S. 1943, S. 1708,Unemployment Compensation Extension Act; H.R. 3244, Emergency Unemployment Compensation The IBEW supported raising the minimum wage. Future increases to the minimum wage should be indexed to inflation, as is Social Security. The $5.15 minimum wage in effect today needs this fix to keep up with the ever-increasing prices needed to support working families. Bill Ref. H.R. 5043, Minimum Wage Indexation; H.R. 4256/S. 2370, Fair Minimum Wage Act.

The IBEW urged support of Davis-Bacon wage rates for school construction when new funding mechanisms are used to "creatively finance" construction. In the past several years there has been a move away from traditional direct financing such as credit enhancements, tax credits, tax-exempt bonds and state infrastructure banks (SIBs). Davis-Bacon protections prevent contractors from competing based on cutting wages and benefits. Contractors on federal projects must pay their workers the wage rates prevailing in the community for each craft, as determined by the U.S. Department of Labor. Davis-Bacon wage rates are not union pay scale, they are rates based upon a broad Department of Labor wage survey taken in local areas. Bill Ref.: HR 1840-School Construction; HR 4252-School Construction; HR 599-School Infrastructure The IBEW supported an amendment to carve-out civil rights and wage & hour cases in the Class Action Fairness Act of 2004. It is important that civil rights & wage and hour class actions filed in state courts remain in state courts. State wage & hour laws provide more complete and timely remedies for victims of unscrupulous employers than the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). In the absence of a carve-out, many of these cases would be forced into federal court, where they will face delays and less favorable procedures. It is generally more difficult and time-consuming to certify a class action case in federal court than in state court and state civil rights laws often afford greater protection than federal law. Bill Reference – S. 2062 (Ltr. 7/6/04) The IBEW supported the Employee Free Choice Act because unions give working people a voice on the job that brings them better pay and benefits, dignity and respect in the workplace. Employers routinely block workers from exercising their rights. This legislation would restore workers' freedom to form unions by ensuring that when a majority of workers decide to form a union they can do so, without intimidation, harassment and delaying tactics by the employer. It would provide for certification of a union if the NLRB finds that a majority of employees have signed cards (“card check”) indicating their preference for representation. It also requires first contract mediation and arbitration if the employer and union aren’t able to reach an agreement within 90 days and institutes strict penalties for employer violations while workers are attempting to organize or obtain a first contract. Bill Ref. H.R. 3619/S. 1925 The IBEW opposed the final regulations written by the Department of Labor (DOL) to change federal overtime pay rules that took effect on August 23. Eliminating overtime pay eligibility is a pay cut that hurts America's working families already harmed by widespread joblessness, stagnant or declining wages, increased health care and prescription drug costs. Overtime laws guaranteed that extra work will be rewarded with increased pay. These job protections were won after decades of struggles with passage of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in 1938. Bill Ref. H.R. 2600, amendment to the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2004 (to block the DOL from using funds to implement the new overtime rules). The IBEW supported a provision in H.R. 4200 that prevents the Department of Defense (DOD) from continuing long-term leasing of foreign-built ships for transporting supplies for our troops. DOD’s leasing of foreign-built ships for up to ten years at a time allows our own shipbuilding industry to decline, leaving inexperienced workers to build the next generation of ships for the U.S. Navy if we allow shipbuilding to continue to be outsourced. Ref. Ronald W. Reagan Nat. Defense Authorization Act. The IBEW opposed expansion of the H-1B and H-2B Visa Programs. As American jobs are being outsourced, expanding this program would bring more foreign workers to take American jobs. Bill Ref. H.R. 2688, Amend Immigration and Nationality Act to Repeal Authorities Relating to H1-B Visas for Temporary Workers. The IBEW supported an additional 13-week extension of unemployment benefits. Bill Ref. H.R. 1652, S. 1943, S. 1708,Unemployment Compensation Extension Act; H.R. 3244, Emergency Unemployment Compensation The IBEW supported raising the minimum wage. Future increases to the minimum wage should be indexed to inflation, as is Social Security. The $5.15 minimum wage in effect today needs this fix to keep up with the ever-increasing prices needed to support working families. Bill Ref. H.R. 5043, Minimum Wage Indexation; H.R. 4256/S. 2370, Fair Minimum Wage Act.

The IBEW opposed the U.S.-Singapore and Chile Free Trade Agreements that contain weak labor protections and expand temporary entry provisions to immigrants from these countries leading to American job losses and increased U.S. trade deficits. Bill Ref. H.R. 2738, H.R. 2739. The IBEW opposed the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA). This free trade covers U.S. trade with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. President Bush signed the pact. The IBEW opposed its approval by Congress. No bill reference.

The IBEW opposed the U.S.-Singapore and Chile Free Trade Agreements that contain weak labor protections and expand temporary entry provisions to immigrants from these countries leading to American job losses and increased U.S. trade deficits. Bill Ref. H.R. 2738, H.R. 2739. The IBEW opposed the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA). This free trade covers U.S. trade with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. President Bush signed the pact. The IBEW opposed its approval by Congress. No bill reference.

IBEW supported an amendment that would authorize funds necessary under the Community Service Block Grants (CSBG) program for six additional months of unemployment benefits for people who have exhausted their state jobless benefits and who are no longer eligible for temporary federal unemployment benefits, which expired in December. Bill Reference H.R. 3030 [Ltr. 1/29/04] The IBEW urged support of the Employee Free Choice Act (S. 1925/H.R. 3619). Card check recognition should be the law of the land giving workers a mechanism in this proposed law to institute first contract arbitration and levy fines against employers who violate the law by stalling negotiations. The IBEW urged rejection of the new personnel rules proposed by the Department of Defense (DoD). In the interest of national security, Congress sought to grant DoD some additional flexibility in managing its work force. Instead, DoD has usurped Congressional authority and proposed that DoD be allowed to: 1. Replace good-faith bargaining with unions over personnel changes to mere “consultation;” 2. Allow DoD to unilaterally determine which changes are sufficiently significant to merit “consultation;” 3. Allow DoD to unilaterally implement personnel changes where it cannot reach agreement with the unions, thereby permitting all post-implementation negotiations to cease; 4. Create an unleveled playing field at the new Defense Labor Relations Board (DLRB) because its members would be selected solely by the Secretary of Defense; and 5. Discriminate against DoD employees because, as a result, up to 200,000 DoD employees could lose their right to join unions. Bill Ref. H.R. 1588, FY 2004 Defense Authorization enacted in 2003 [Ltr. 3/29/04] The IBEW strongly opposes the final regulations written by the Department of Labor to change federal overtime pay rules. The overtime laws guarantee extra work will be rewarded with extra pay. These job protections were won after decades of struggle to make jobs safe and protect workers from abuse. These changes would erode the 40-hour workweek. IBEW opposed S. 2290, the "Fairness in Asbestos Injury Resolution Act of 2004." S. 2290 creates a new asbestos trust fund that contains inadequate award values for victims and does not resolve fund solvency issues; pre-empts asbestos-related compensation for railroad workers covered by Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA); fails to address the separate treatment of pending claims and settlements; includes language that subrogates the victim's ability to collect other forms of compensation, such as worker's compensation; and lacks a sufficient medical screening provision for high risk workers. Additionally, court costs and lawyers' fees are a good portion of current asbestos awards, leaving unfair compensation settlements for victims. The IBEW supports elimination of prison work programs that unfairly compete with law-abiding citizens. Prison labor allows private companies to bid for work previously under the exclusive jurisdiction of Federal Prison Industries (FPI). Bill Ref. S. 346, a bill to amend the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act to establish a government wide policy requiring competition in certain executive agency procurements.

The IBEW opposed any and all attempts to privatize Social Security by draining dollars into individual retirement accounts. Social Security benefits are guaranteed for life and increase with the cost of living, unlike private accounts that rise and fall with the stock market. Individual retirement accounts would require taxes to be raised and would increase the federal budget deficit, jeopardizing benefit payments needed to pay current and future retirees. Bill Ref. H.R. 3177, Social Security Savings Act; H.R. 3821, Bipartisan Retirement Act ; H.R. 4851, Social Security Personal Guarantee and Prosperity Act, S. 2782,

The IBEW urged support of Davis-Bacon wage rates for school construction when new funding mechanisms are used to "creatively finance" construction. In the past several years there has been a move away from traditional direct financing such as credit enhancements, tax credits, tax-exempt bonds and state infrastructure banks (SIBs). Davis-Bacon protections prevent contractors from competing based on cutting wages and benefits. Contractors on federal projects must pay their workers the wage rates prevailing in the community for each craft, as determined by the U.S. Department of Labor. Davis-Bacon wage rates are not union pay scale, they are rates based upon a broad Department of Labor wage survey taken in local areas. Bill Ref.: HR 1840-School Construction; HR 4252-School Construction; HR 599-School Infrastructure The IBEW supported an amendment to carve-out civil rights and wage & hour cases in the Class Action Fairness Act of 2004. It is important that civil rights & wage and hour class actions filed in state courts remain in state courts. State wage & hour laws provide more complete and timely remedies for victims of unscrupulous employers than the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). In the absence of a carve-out, many of these cases would be forced into federal court, where they will face delays and less favorable procedures. It is generally more difficult and time-consuming to certify a class action case in federal court than in state court and state civil rights laws often afford greater protection than federal law. Bill Reference – S. 2062 (Ltr. 7/6/04) The IBEW supported the Employee Free Choice Act because unions give working people a voice on the job that brings them better pay and benefits, dignity and respect in the workplace. Employers routinely block workers from exercising their rights. This legislation would restore workers' freedom to form unions by ensuring that when a majority of workers decide to form a union they can do so, without intimidation, harassment and delaying tactics by the employer. It would provide for certification of a union if the NLRB finds that a majority of employees have signed cards (“card check”) indicating their preference for representation. It also requires first contract mediation and arbitration if the employer and union aren’t able to reach an agreement within 90 days and institutes strict penalties for employer violations while workers are attempting to organize or obtain a first contract. Bill Ref. H.R. 3619/S. 1925 The IBEW opposed the final regulations written by the Department of Labor (DOL) to change federal overtime pay rules that took effect on August 23. Eliminating overtime pay eligibility is a pay cut that hurts America's working families already harmed by widespread joblessness, stagnant or declining wages, increased health care and prescription drug costs. Overtime laws guaranteed that extra work will be rewarded with increased pay. These job protections were won after decades of struggles with passage of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in 1938. Bill Ref. H.R. 2600, amendment to the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2004 (to block the DOL from using funds to implement the new overtime rules). The IBEW supported a provision in H.R. 4200 that prevents the Department of Defense (DOD) from continuing long-term leasing of foreign-built ships for transporting supplies for our troops. DOD’s leasing of foreign-built ships for up to ten years at a time allows our own shipbuilding industry to decline, leaving inexperienced workers to build the next generation of ships for the U.S. Navy if we allow shipbuilding to continue to be outsourced. Ref. Ronald W. Reagan Nat. Defense Authorization Act. The IBEW opposed expansion of the H-1B and H-2B Visa Programs. As American jobs are being outsourced, expanding this program would bring more foreign workers to take American jobs. Bill Ref. H.R. 2688, Amend Immigration and Nationality Act to Repeal Authorities Relating to H1-B Visas for Temporary Workers. The IBEW supported an additional 13-week extension of unemployment benefits. Bill Ref. H.R. 1652, S. 1943, S. 1708,Unemployment Compensation Extension Act; H.R. 3244, Emergency Unemployment Compensation The IBEW supported raising the minimum wage. Future increases to the minimum wage should be indexed to inflation, as is Social Security. The $5.15 minimum wage in effect today needs this fix to keep up with the ever-increasing prices needed to support working families. Bill Ref. H.R. 5043, Minimum Wage Indexation; H.R. 4256/S. 2370, Fair Minimum Wage Act.

The IBEW urged support of Davis-Bacon wage rates for school construction when new funding mechanisms are used to "creatively finance" construction. In the past several years there has been a move away from traditional direct financing such as credit enhancements, tax credits, tax-exempt bonds and state infrastructure banks (SIBs). Davis-Bacon protections prevent contractors from competing based on cutting wages and benefits. Contractors on federal projects must pay their workers the wage rates prevailing in the community for each craft, as determined by the U.S. Department of Labor. Davis-Bacon wage rates are not union pay scale, they are rates based upon a broad Department of Labor wage survey taken in local areas. Bill Ref.: HR 1840-School Construction; HR 4252-School Construction; HR 599-School Infrastructure The IBEW supported an amendment to carve-out civil rights and wage & hour cases in the Class Action Fairness Act of 2004. It is important that civil rights & wage and hour class actions filed in state courts remain in state courts. State wage & hour laws provide more complete and timely remedies for victims of unscrupulous employers than the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). In the absence of a carve-out, many of these cases would be forced into federal court, where they will face delays and less favorable procedures. It is generally more difficult and time-consuming to certify a class action case in federal court than in state court and state civil rights laws often afford greater protection than federal law. Bill Reference – S. 2062 (Ltr. 7/6/04) The IBEW supported the Employee Free Choice Act because unions give working people a voice on the job that brings them better pay and benefits, dignity and respect in the workplace. Employers routinely block workers from exercising their rights. This legislation would restore workers' freedom to form unions by ensuring that when a majority of workers decide to form a union they can do so, without intimidation, harassment and delaying tactics by the employer. It would provide for certification of a union if the NLRB finds that a majority of employees have signed cards (“card check”) indicating their preference for representation. It also requires first contract mediation and arbitration if the employer and union aren’t able to reach an agreement within 90 days and institutes strict penalties for employer violations while workers are attempting to organize or obtain a first contract. Bill Ref. H.R. 3619/S. 1925 The IBEW opposed the final regulations written by the Department of Labor (DOL) to change federal overtime pay rules that took effect on August 23. Eliminating overtime pay eligibility is a pay cut that hurts America's working families already harmed by widespread joblessness, stagnant or declining wages, increased health care and prescription drug costs. Overtime laws guaranteed that extra work will be rewarded with increased pay. These job protections were won after decades of struggles with passage of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in 1938. Bill Ref. H.R. 2600, amendment to the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2004 (to block the DOL from using funds to implement the new overtime rules). The IBEW supported a provision in H.R. 4200 that prevents the Department of Defense (DOD) from continuing long-term leasing of foreign-built ships for transporting supplies for our troops. DOD’s leasing of foreign-built ships for up to ten years at a time allows our own shipbuilding industry to decline, leaving inexperienced workers to build the next generation of ships for the U.S. Navy if we allow shipbuilding to continue to be outsourced. Ref. Ronald W. Reagan Nat. Defense Authorization Act. The IBEW opposed expansion of the H-1B and H-2B Visa Programs. As American jobs are being outsourced, expanding this program would bring more foreign workers to take American jobs. Bill Ref. H.R. 2688, Amend Immigration and Nationality Act to Repeal Authorities Relating to H1-B Visas for Temporary Workers. The IBEW supported an additional 13-week extension of unemployment benefits. Bill Ref. H.R. 1652, S. 1943, S. 1708,Unemployment Compensation Extension Act; H.R. 3244, Emergency Unemployment Compensation The IBEW supported raising the minimum wage. Future increases to the minimum wage should be indexed to inflation, as is Social Security. The $5.15 minimum wage in effect today needs this fix to keep up with the ever-increasing prices needed to support working families. Bill Ref. H.R. 5043, Minimum Wage Indexation; H.R. 4256/S. 2370, Fair Minimum Wage Act.

IBEW supported an amendment that would authorize funds necessary under the Community Service Block Grants (CSBG) program for six additional months of unemployment benefits for people who have exhausted their state jobless benefits and who are no longer eligible for temporary federal unemployment benefits, which expired in December. Bill Reference H.R. 3030 [Ltr. 1/29/04] The IBEW urged support of the Employee Free Choice Act (S. 1925/H.R. 3619). Card check recognition should be the law of the land giving workers a mechanism in this proposed law to institute first contract arbitration and levy fines against employers who violate the law by stalling negotiations. The IBEW urged rejection of the new personnel rules proposed by the Department of Defense (DoD). In the interest of national security, Congress sought to grant DoD some additional flexibility in managing its work force. Instead, DoD has usurped Congressional authority and proposed that DoD be allowed to: 1. Replace good-faith bargaining with unions over personnel changes to mere “consultation;” 2. Allow DoD to unilaterally determine which changes are sufficiently significant to merit “consultation;” 3. Allow DoD to unilaterally implement personnel changes where it cannot reach agreement with the unions, thereby permitting all post-implementation negotiations to cease; 4. Create an unleveled playing field at the new Defense Labor Relations Board (DLRB) because its members would be selected solely by the Secretary of Defense; and 5. Discriminate against DoD employees because, as a result, up to 200,000 DoD employees could lose their right to join unions. Bill Ref. H.R. 1588, FY 2004 Defense Authorization enacted in 2003 [Ltr. 3/29/04] The IBEW strongly opposes the final regulations written by the Department of Labor to change federal overtime pay rules. The overtime laws guarantee extra work will be rewarded with extra pay. These job protections were won after decades of struggle to make jobs safe and protect workers from abuse. These changes would erode the 40-hour workweek. IBEW opposed S. 2290, the "Fairness in Asbestos Injury Resolution Act of 2004." S. 2290 creates a new asbestos trust fund that contains inadequate award values for victims and does not resolve fund solvency issues; pre-empts asbestos-related compensation for railroad workers covered by Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA); fails to address the separate treatment of pending claims and settlements; includes language that subrogates the victim's ability to collect other forms of compensation, such as worker's compensation; and lacks a sufficient medical screening provision for high risk workers. Additionally, court costs and lawyers' fees are a good portion of current asbestos awards, leaving unfair compensation settlements for victims. The IBEW supports elimination of prison work programs that unfairly compete with law-abiding citizens. Prison labor allows private companies to bid for work previously under the exclusive jurisdiction of Federal Prison Industries (FPI). Bill Ref. S. 346, a bill to amend the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act to establish a government wide policy requiring competition in certain executive agency procurements.

The IBEW supported the Medicare Prescription Drug Savings and Choice Act of 2004 and urged signing of the Discharge Petition filed to move this legislation to the House Floor. The bill would require the federal government to use its purchasing power to negotiate real discounts on prescription medicine for seniors and people with disabilities. This bill would establish a Medicare plan in every part of the country so all seniors would have the choice to get their drugs from Medicare instead of HMOs or private insurance companies, and it would bring prescription drug costs under control. Bill Ref. H.R. 3767; S. 2714 Discharge Petition no. 9. [Ltr. 7/14/04]

The IBEW opposed any and all attempts to privatize Social Security by draining dollars into individual retirement accounts. Social Security benefits are guaranteed for life and increase with the cost of living, unlike private accounts that rise and fall with the stock market. Individual retirement accounts would require taxes to be raised and would increase the federal budget deficit, jeopardizing benefit payments needed to pay current and future retirees. Bill Ref. H.R. 3177, Social Security Savings Act; H.R. 3821, Bipartisan Retirement Act ; H.R. 4851, Social Security Personal Guarantee and Prosperity Act, S. 2782,

The IBEW urged support of Davis-Bacon wage rates for school construction when new funding mechanisms are used to "creatively finance" construction. In the past several years there has been a move away from traditional direct financing such as credit enhancements, tax credits, tax-exempt bonds and state infrastructure banks (SIBs). Davis-Bacon protections prevent contractors from competing based on cutting wages and benefits. Contractors on federal projects must pay their workers the wage rates prevailing in the community for each craft, as determined by the U.S. Department of Labor. Davis-Bacon wage rates are not union pay scale, they are rates based upon a broad Department of Labor wage survey taken in local areas. Bill Ref.: HR 1840-School Construction; HR 4252-School Construction; HR 599-School Infrastructure The IBEW supported an amendment to carve-out civil rights and wage & hour cases in the Class Action Fairness Act of 2004. It is important that civil rights & wage and hour class actions filed in state courts remain in state courts. State wage & hour laws provide more complete and timely remedies for victims of unscrupulous employers than the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). In the absence of a carve-out, many of these cases would be forced into federal court, where they will face delays and less favorable procedures. It is generally more difficult and time-consuming to certify a class action case in federal court than in state court and state civil rights laws often afford greater protection than federal law. Bill Reference – S. 2062 (Ltr. 7/6/04) The IBEW supported the Employee Free Choice Act because unions give working people a voice on the job that brings them better pay and benefits, dignity and respect in the workplace. Employers routinely block workers from exercising their rights. This legislation would restore workers' freedom to form unions by ensuring that when a majority of workers decide to form a union they can do so, without intimidation, harassment and delaying tactics by the employer. It would provide for certification of a union if the NLRB finds that a majority of employees have signed cards (“card check”) indicating their preference for representation. It also requires first contract mediation and arbitration if the employer and union aren’t able to reach an agreement within 90 days and institutes strict penalties for employer violations while workers are attempting to organize or obtain a first contract. Bill Ref. H.R. 3619/S. 1925 The IBEW opposed the final regulations written by the Department of Labor (DOL) to change federal overtime pay rules that took effect on August 23. Eliminating overtime pay eligibility is a pay cut that hurts America's working families already harmed by widespread joblessness, stagnant or declining wages, increased health care and prescription drug costs. Overtime laws guaranteed that extra work will be rewarded with increased pay. These job protections were won after decades of struggles with passage of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in 1938. Bill Ref. H.R. 2600, amendment to the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2004 (to block the DOL from using funds to implement the new overtime rules). The IBEW supported a provision in H.R. 4200 that prevents the Department of Defense (DOD) from continuing long-term leasing of foreign-built ships for transporting supplies for our troops. DOD’s leasing of foreign-built ships for up to ten years at a time allows our own shipbuilding industry to decline, leaving inexperienced workers to build the next generation of ships for the U.S. Navy if we allow shipbuilding to continue to be outsourced. Ref. Ronald W. Reagan Nat. Defense Authorization Act. The IBEW opposed expansion of the H-1B and H-2B Visa Programs. As American jobs are being outsourced, expanding this program would bring more foreign workers to take American jobs. Bill Ref. H.R. 2688, Amend Immigration and Nationality Act to Repeal Authorities Relating to H1-B Visas for Temporary Workers. The IBEW supported an additional 13-week extension of unemployment benefits. Bill Ref. H.R. 1652, S. 1943, S. 1708,Unemployment Compensation Extension Act; H.R. 3244, Emergency Unemployment Compensation The IBEW supported raising the minimum wage. Future increases to the minimum wage should be indexed to inflation, as is Social Security. The $5.15 minimum wage in effect today needs this fix to keep up with the ever-increasing prices needed to support working families. Bill Ref. H.R. 5043, Minimum Wage Indexation; H.R. 4256/S. 2370, Fair Minimum Wage Act.