Long Island, September 11, 2025
News Summary
Local leaders in Long Island are pushing for the implementation of project labor agreements (PLAs) to combat corruption and protect workers in public school construction projects. At a recent press conference, officials from various districts highlighted issues with contractors who have faced legal action for tax evasion and employee exploitation. The proposed Stop Worker Exploitation in Public Education Act aims to ensure that contracts are fairly awarded to qualified local contractors, ultimately safeguarding taxpayer interests and improving working conditions for workers.
Long Island leaders have come together to champion the implementation of project labor agreements (PLAs) aimed at reducing corruption and protecting workers in public school construction projects. A recent press conference held at the Norman J. Levy Lakeside School showcased a unified effort among elected officials, labor leaders, and construction workers to address ongoing issues within local construction practices.
The event spotlighted the Merrick School District, along with more than a dozen other districts in Long Island, facing significant problems related to contractors who have been prosecuted for nonpayment of taxes and exploitation of workers. This year alone, the Nassau County District Attorney’s office has prosecuted two contractors for various offenses, including submitting fraudulent certified payrolls that went undetected by the district.
Earlier, at a separate press conference at Uniondale High School, officials highlighted the indictment of a Bronx-based masonry contractor on charges including aggravated identity theft and failure to pay employee payroll taxes. Such criminal activities have led to severe consequences for taxpayers, costing millions of dollars and depriving workers of hundreds of thousands in wages.
Long Island public school districts have awarded lucrative contracts to several contractors with troubling records, including incidents of wire fraud, wage theft, and failure to maintain proper insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. The harmful practices prevalent in the construction sector have prompted local leaders to advocate for the Stop Worker Exploitation in Public Education Act, which seeks to establish PLAs between public school districts and local building trade unions. This initiative aims to ensure that jobs are awarded to reliable, New York-based contractors that prioritize hiring local workers.
Among those endorsing the proposed legislation are various organizations, including the Building and Construction Trades Council of Nassau & Suffolk Counties, the Mason Tenders’ District Council of New York and Long Island, and the Long Island Federation of Labor. New York State Senators and Assembly Members from Long Island are lending their support, calling attention to the need for greater accountability and a focus on local hiring within public contracts.
Senator Monica Martinez highlighted that the act aims to provide protection for workers while also safeguarding taxpayer funds and ensuring safety on construction sites. Senator Jack Martins added that PLAs offer a sense of certainty for school districts and help maintain well-paying job opportunities within the state. Assemblymember Michaelle Solages remarked that contractors who exploit workers not only affect their immediate workforce but also have a damaging impact on communities, students, and the local economy.
The campaign for reform in public school construction practices indicates a growing consensus among local leaders and labor organizations. Advocates are pushing for legislative changes that would address longstanding issues in how construction contracts are awarded and executed in Long Island school districts.
FAQs
What are project labor agreements (PLAs)?
PLAs are collective bargaining agreements that set the terms and conditions of employment for a specific construction project and typically involve collaboration between public agencies and labor unions.
Why are PLAs being proposed for Long Island public schools?
The aim is to combat construction corruption, ensure safety for workers, and make certain that contracts are awarded to reputable contractors who employ local labor.
What issues have been identified with current contractors in Long Island schools?
Many contractors have been found guilty of nonpayment of taxes, wage theft, and submitting fraudulent documents, leading to significant financial losses for both workers and taxpayers.
How do PLAs benefit taxpayers and workers?
PLAs help to ensure that construction projects are executed in a safe, efficient manner by trained local workers, which can save taxpayer money while providing fair wages and working conditions for employees.
Who is supporting the Stop Worker Exploitation in Public Education Act?
Support comes from numerous local organizations, elected officials, and labor leaders who are concerned about the integrity of public school construction in Long Island.
Key Features of the Campaign
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) | Agreements ensuring collaboration between public agencies and local building trades unions for fair construction practices. |
| Focus on Local Contractors | Prioritization of New York-based contractors to create jobs and stimulate the local economy. |
| Legislative Support | Backed by New York State Senators and Assembly Members advocating for accountability in public contracts. |
| Combatting Exploitation | Aiming to protect workers from exploitation and ensure safe working conditions in public school construction. |
| Financial Accountability | Reducing the financial burden on taxpayers by ensuring reliable, ethical contractors are hired. |
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Additional Resources
- Long Island School Construction Reform
- Wikipedia: Project Labor Agreement
- Modern Packaging Bay Shore Expansion
- Google Search: Construction Project Labor Agreements
- Trailblazers in Construction
- Google Scholar: Construction Corruption
- Tax Reform Bill for Construction Industry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction Industry
- NYC Sidewalk Scaffolding Reforms
- Google News: Scaffolding Reforms
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