Social equity concerns with CWA-PLA_.pdf

The document discusses the social equity concerns and cost increases associated with Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) or Community Workforce Agreements (CWAs). It highlights how PLAs can hinder the employment opportunities of minority-owned firms, particularly Black and Hispanic owned businesses, due to restrictions on non-union contractors. Various organizations, such as the National Black Chamber of Commerce and Latin Builders Association, oppose PLAs due to their discriminatory nature and negative impact on minority-owned businesses. Additionally, the document presents data showing that PLAs can significantly increase construction costs, with studies indicating cost hikes ranging from 12% to 18% compared to non-PLA projects. The case study of Port Terminal 117 exemplifies the cost implications of CWAs, with a notable 30% premium observed. The document provides specific cost increase percentages from various studies conducted in different states, emphasizing the financial implications of government-mandated PLAs.