Suffolk Reporter

Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R,C-Medford) recently participated in a rally on the Million Dollar Staircase, alongside members of various Building Trades unions, to advocate for bill A.5486 and promote good union jobs at SUNY. The event aimed to garner support for Project Labor Agreement (PLA) legislation for quality construction jobs at SUNY.

DeStefano, a co-sponsor of the bill, emphasized the importance of supporting workers in the construction industry. He expressed his solidarity with union members, stating, "I proudly stand with all of the laborers, carpenters, painters, insulators, bricklayers, steamfitters and many more." DeStefano highlighted the need for SUNY to prioritize the well-being of these workers and stressed the significance of implementing a statewide PLA to address issues related to out-of-state contractors.

The bipartisan press conference led by New York State Assembly and Senate members, as well as representatives from various unions such as the New York State Building & Construction Trades Council, underscored the collective effort to advocate for PLA legislation at SUNY campuses.

The call for endorsement of PLA legislation at SUNY resonated throughout the event, with DeStefano and his colleagues urging Gov. Kathy Hochul and the Legislature to support the initiative. The collaboration between legislative members and union representatives showcased a commitment to advancing the interests of workers in the construction sector and promoting quality construction jobs at SUNY.

The emphasis on promoting good union jobs and advocating for PLA legislation reflects a concerted effort to enhance the construction industry's standards and provide opportunities for skilled workers in New York State.