Take off your hardhat, unlace those boots and crack open an ice-cold Sunny Delight from the back of the fridge: it’s finally time to unwind with your weekly construction industry news roundup. This week’s news arrives with an exciting array of topics like the regional effects of the U.S and China’s trade war, the future expansion of worker choice in relation to labor unions and a positive initiative to empower Chicago’s minority-owned contracting businesses. Read ahead for the full stories!
Arizona Construction Industry Pays Steep Price as Tariffs Escalate
AZ Big Media
Despite growth in construction, Arizona construction businesses face challenges to competitiveness and cost increases due to U.S. trade policy. Stay tuned as U.S.-China negotiations continue.
Chicago’s Building Industry Creates 1st-ever Loan Fund for Minority Biz
Chicago Sun Times
Major industry players in Chicago have created a loan fund to support minority-owned construction firms. Those involved hope the initiative will be able to provide much needed support for minority businesses competing for work on Chicago’s new development project called ‘The 78’.
NLRB’s Proposed Rule Change Expand Employee Free Choice in the Construction Industry
The National Law Review
A new proposal by the National Labor Relations Board seeks to expand worker freedom by allowing for more choice in joining and leaving labor unions.
Labor Tribunal Invalidates Quebec’s Regional Hiring Priority for Construction Workers
Montreal Gazette
A new ruling from Quebec’s administrative labor tribunal has invalidated previous regulations on regional hiring in the construction industry. The change is set to go into effect in 2021.
Research Team Receive Grant to Commercialize 3D-Printed Concrete Systems
Penn State University
Researchers from Penn State University have received $75,000 in order to pursue new advancements in 3D printers for construction and more environmentally-conscious concrete formulas.
Why Do So Many Construction Workers Kill Themselves
The Guardian
Loneliness and high-pressure work is contributing to severe addiction issues among UK construction workers, including alcoholism, drug use and excessive gambling.
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