On August 13, a federal prohibition on the use of certain telecommunications components took effect. The new Interim Final Rule (IFR), often referred to as “Section 889 Part B,” prohibits federal agencies from entering into, extending, or renewing a contract with a contractor that uses any equipment, system, or service that utilizes certain Chinese companies’ telecommunications equipment or services as a component or critical technology of any system, unless an exception applies or a waiver is granted. The Department of Defense issued a memo on this measure, explaining that federal contractors should expect change orders or other required affirmations of a contractor’s compliance with this prohibition. On July 1 and July 15, AGC, along with a coalition of stakeholders, called on Congress to extend the date of implementation and to make key changes to the rule.
AGC of America’s Union Contractors Committee will hold its next quarterly conference call on September 10, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern time.
Gains in July are Limited to Residential Side as State and Local Governments and Private Owners Postpone And Cancel Upcoming Projects; Association Urges Prompt Federal Action to Make up for Revenue Losses
Apply by Wednesday, October 21, 2020!
Earlier this week AGC joined nearly 200 companies, unions and organizations in a letter urging Congress to include COBRA funding in the next COVID relief package. COBRA is important for the continuation of job-based health insurance for the Americans that have recently lost their jobs as a result of the pandemic. AGC recognizes the importance of keeping the employer-provided health care system operating and federal subsidies will provide certainty for plans and the recently separated participants. Congress provided similar relief in response to the 2009 recession.
This week, AGC helped lead a coalition effort with the International Franchise Association (IFA) calling on Congress to expand the availability of “second draw” Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for small businesses. A provision in the Senate GOP COVID relief proposal would allow small businesses to apply for a second PPP loan, but with stricter criteria than for the original PPP loans. One of the new requirements for second draw loans is that a business demonstrate a 50 percent loss in revenue. AGC called for lowering the revenue loss threshold, so that additional small businesses qualify.
Clarifies Outstanding Fringe Benefit Questions Regarding Paid Leave
AGC Continues to Press for Construction Industry Priorities
Clarifies Outstanding Fringe Benefit Questions Regarding Paid Leave
Association Officials Warn Further Contraction is Likely unless Federal Government Enacts Prompt, Major Investment in Infrastructure as State and Local Governments Face Deficits