March 2025_Spokesman

March 2025

A Monthly Publication of ABC Keystone

DEREK ROBBINS

ABC NATIONAL 2025 CRAFT INSTRUCTOR OF THE YEAR

ABC KEYSTONE LEADERSHIP 2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chair of the Board

Guy Kingree, III Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.

Chair-Elect

Steven Kearns James Craft & Son, Inc.

1st Vice Chair

Ed Engle Smucker Company

2 Message from the Chair

2nd Vice Chair

Jeff Witmer Pathway Business Advisors

4

From the CEO-President

Secretary

Robb Beiler Wohlsen Construction Company

5 Derek Robbins - ABC National Craft Instructor of the Year

Treasurer

Timothy A. Kershner, CPA Walz Group

Immediate Past Chair

John Lehmann Poole Anderson Construction, LLC

PROUDLY PUBLISHED

BY ABC KEYSTONE

7

National Craft Competition & Construction Management Competition

9 Safety in Focus

2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Corbin Beittel

Warfel Construction Company

Jeff Bright

Offit Kurman

Nora Brooks

Alternative HR, LLC

12 Emerging Leaders Spotlight

Steve Conway

Pyramid Construction Services, LLC A Quandel Company

14 Advocacy Update

Aimée Deraco

Brubaker, Inc.

Scott Duke

The Witmer Group

Michael L. Fiore

Leonard S. Fiore, Inc.

Brian Floyd

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

15 Calendar of Events 17 New Members 19 Merit Shop 20 Anniversaries 21 Regional Construction Wake-up Calls

Ken Funk

Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc.

John H. Hykes, II

B&B Integrations

Anthony Leer

Leer Electric, Inc.

Michael Metz-Topodas

Saul Ewing LLP

Patrick Snyder

Peoples Security Bank & Trust

Lee L. Summers, Jr.

C Mechanical Services

Kevin VanPelt

S&T Bank

Jan L. Wagner

Wagman Construction, Inc.

Scott Wengrenovich

Murray

G. David Sload, President-CEO

Manheim Office 135 Shellyland Rd. Manheim, PA 17545

Nittany Valley Office 898 N. Eagle Valley Rd. Howard, PA 16841 Harrisburg Office 800 North Third St., Suite 407 Harrisburg, PA 17102

The Merit Shop Spokesman is published 12 times a year by Associated Builders & Contractors, Keystone Chapter.

Articles of interest, member news, press releases, and advertising placement requests may be submitted to the editor: Rebecca Wolf Director of Marketing & Communications ABC Keystone rebecca@abckeystone.org | (717) 653-8106

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR CELEBRATING WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION Empowering the Future of the Industry BY: GUY KINGREE

March is dedicated to celebrating the impact of women in construction, and there has never been a better time to acknowledge the strides being made to bring more women into this dynamic and vital industry. We not only are provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress made by women who have paved the way, but it also gives us a time to focus on the ongoing efforts to recruit and inspire more young women to become impassioned with construction. Now, more than ever, with the construction sector in need of skilled workers, the future is brighter when women are encouraged to take their place in this industry.

Historically, construction has been dominated by men, but this trend has been slowly changing over the past few decades. More women are beginning to see the immense potential within the trades and are pursuing careers in construction. In Pennsylvania alone, local organizations, trade schools, and most importantly, ABC

Keystone are increasing efforts to not only provide resources for women currently in the industry but to also create opportunities for younger generations to envision themselves in construction roles.

Through these efforts, for high school and middle school girls, the opportunity to think about a career in construction is becoming more tangible. Thanks to educational initiatives and hands-on programs, like Keystone’s “Girls Camp” girls are now being introduced to the trades earlier than ever before. School partnerships are also helping girls discover their talents in areas they might never have considered. By showing young girls that construction is not only a viable career path but one that can be incredibly rewarding, these programs are creating new pathways and transforming the narrative surrounding women in the trades.

One of the most powerful aspects of focusing on Women in Construction this month is on celebrating continued on next page

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role models and leaders within the industry. From construction managers to heavy equipment operators, women are making their mark in every sector of the industry. These women serve as inspiration for the next generation and are proof that success is attainable, regardless of gender. The opportunities are not just about filling gaps in a male-dominated workforce; they are also about changing the industry for the better.

Women bring unique perspectives, problem-solving abilities, and fresh ideas to construction projects. Having more women in leadership positions, such as project managers and construction executives, can lead to improved communication, better teamwork, and a more collaborative approach to problem-solving. With a diverse workforce, construction companies are more likely to innovate and approach challenges in creative ways, improving efficiency and productivity.

Looking toward the future, the construction workforce stands to benefit greatly from an influx of women

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entering the industry. As more and more people retire away from our industry, the need for skilled workers is more urgent than ever. Women represent a vast, untapped talent pool that can help fill these vacancies and drive the industry forward. Furthermore, as the push for diversity, equity, and inclusion continues to gain traction across all sectors, women in construction can be a powerful force in advocating for systemic changes that will benefit everyone.

As we enter the end of the first quarter of 2025, the future of women in construction looks promising. With the right resources, mentorship, and a commitment to creating inclusive environments, women can continue to thrive in the industry and contribute to its growth.

As we celebrate Women in Construction, it’s important to recognize the achievements of where we are today, while also looking forward to the endless possibilities for young women entering the industry in the future.

By investing in and empowering women, the construction industry will not only become more diverse but stronger, more innovative, and better equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

FROM THE PRESIDENT-CEO SCAM ALERT! BY: G. DAVID SLOAD

The construction industry already faces enough challenges without the added threat of cyberattacks targeting your computer systems and websites to steal or extort money. In an industry with narrow profit margins, these security breaches can be devastating.

Even more concerning is the fact that these criminals often infiltrate your systems long before making their move.

Two recent incidents should serve as a wake-up call for everyone. Here at the chapter, I frequently receive suspicious emails claiming payment is due for services I know were never rendered. I make sure to delete these without clicking on any links. But the scammers don’t give up. They've now begun targeting our accounts payable team. The emails contain what appear to be legitimate invoices with real details and instructions to pay via ACH. The scammers even use authentic company logos and information, but the payment process redirects to them, not the actual companies. Fortunately, we have a multi-step invoice approval process in place, which has prevented us from sending out thousands of dollars.

The second example is even more sinister. A member recently was on the verge of losing $600,000.00 in one day. That should cause you to pause. He received a call showing his bank name and bank number on his phone. The person on the other end of the call stated that he noticed some suspicious ACH activity and that they should get online to verify if it was correct. He asked the person to call his internal financial person to work through the issue. As his employee was working with this person, the member received another call from his bank stating that they saw suspicious activity. He told his banker “Yes, we are on the phone with another one of your staff working through the issue at this time”. His banker told him that the other person your employee was talking to was not with the bank. Between the member and his bank, they were able to shut the scammer down.

Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it harder to detect their schemes. It’s essential to be cautious about any inquiry that comes via phone, text, or email. If your bank contacts you regarding suspicious transactions, reach out to them directly through known channels to confirm the request is legitimate.

Additionally, protect your company’s assets by training employees to recognize potential scams. Consult with your insurance provider to ensure you have the right cyber coverage in place. Work with your IT team to implement dual authorization for transactions. As we've seen, it only takes one email, text, or phone call to put your company at risk.

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DEREK ROBBINS ABC NATIONAL 2025 CRAFT INSTRUCTOR OF THE YEAR Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Keystone chapter is proud to announce that Derek Robbins, HVAC Director and Sheet Metal Instructor, has been named the ABC National 2025 Craft Instructor of the Year. Robbins received this prestigious honor at the ABC Convention 2025 in Las Vegas on February 25. A full-time instructor at ABC Keystone, Robbins resides in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania with his family.

The Craft Instructor of the Year Award is presented annually to an exceptional educator who demonstrates creativity, a positive attitude, and a talent for communicating complex concepts through innovative teaching methods. The award recognizes individuals who inspire lifelong learning within the future workforce of the construction industry.

"Derek's dedication to excellence and his transformative impact on our HVAC program make him an invaluable member of ABC Keystone," said Dave Sload, President-CEO. "His commitment extends 5

beyond teaching—he is a true mentor and advocate for his students' success."

At 49, Robbins plays a pivotal role in shaping the HVAC and sheet metal curriculum at ABC Keystone, designing comprehensive, four-year programs that align with the ever-evolving needs of the industry.

By integrating advanced technologies such as 3D simulations and interactive visuals, Robbins enhances classroom experiences, preparing students for success in both certification exams and hands-on work. With over 12 years of experience in the construction sector, Robbins has consistently elevated the quality of education at ABC Keystone.

Robbins also made a lasting impact by preparing the chapter’s top HVAC apprentices in 2024 at the ABC National Craft Championships, where the student earned a gold medal. His 2025 competitior earned silver.

FREE SERIES A Davis Bacon/Prevailing Wage 3 Part Hot Topic Seminar Series MARCH 18 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

“I am passionate about providing top-tier education and mentorship to future tradespeople,” Robbins shared. “Teaching apprentices is the most rewarding aspect of my career, and I strive to make skills training more accessible by offering additional hands-on sessions outside of regular hours. My goal is to ensure every apprentice has the resources and guidance they need to thrive in the industry.”

As Craft Instructor of the Year, Robbins was awarded a $10,000 cash prize. The award is co-sponsored by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and Tradesmen International.

Robbins will also be featured in the June issue of Construction Executive magazine.

The Craft Instructor of the Year Award is one of several ABC initiatives that celebrate lifelong learning and achievement at all levels of the construction industry.

For more information on ABC’s commitment to workforce development, visit workforce.abc.org.

Session 1: Stop Overpaying: Mastering Annualization & Fringe Benefits APRIL 8 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM Session 2: Wage Classifications Uncovered: Stay Compliant & Competitive APRIL 29 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM Session 3: Davis-Bacon Fringe Benefits: Retirement, Self-Funded Medical & Unfunded Plans Manheim Office 135 Shellyland Rd. Manheim, PA 17545 Sign up for these free events!

Build Your Team.

Grow and Develop Your Workforce with ABC Keystone.

The construction industry is constantly evolving. To stay relevant, companies must continually grow their talent. ABC Keystone understands that making employee development a priority within a company culture ensures the team remains well-informed on industry trends, recent developments, and best practices.

• Create your own workforce through formalized training.

• Increase productivity, safety & profits.

• Expand your workers' knowledge base.

• Bid work more competitively.

Contact us today to learn more today.

ABCKEYSTONE.ORG

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NATIONAL CRAFT CHAMPIONSHIPS ABC Keystone is proud to announce that two of its apprentices earned top honors at the prestigious 2025 National Craft Competition.

Bronze - Carpentry Nickolas Gockley

Silver - HVAC: Jacob Gelsinger

Warfel Construction Company

Zimmerman Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

The 36th annual competition showcased the incredible skills and expertise of nearly 200 of the nation’s best craft professionals across various trades, including carpentry, drywall, electrical, fire sprinkler, HVAC, instrumentation, millwright, power line, welding, and more. These talented competitors vied for top honors in 15 categories, with skills on display in 11 distinct crafts.

"I’m extremely proud of all five of the Keystone craft competitors who competed in Vegas. It is truly an honor to attend the National Competition each year and see our competitors go head-to-head with the best across the country," said Cindy DeWire, Director of Apprenticeship.

Congratulations to Nickolas and Jacob for their outstanding achievements in this highly competitive event!

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT COMPETITION Pennsylvania College of Technology, ABC Keystone’s student chapter, earned third place overall and top spots in estimating, project management, and safety.

They were also named 2024 Student Chapter of the Year.

At the ABC National convention they competed against 34 teams nationwide in the Construction Management Competition, students showcased their skills in a real-world setting, gaining valuable experience and networking with industry professionals.

"Keystone is fortunate to have a student chapter like Penn College. Under the guidance of Wayne Sheppard and his dedicated staff, the students are consistently put in a position to succeed in the construction industry. Their hard work has clearly paid off, with impressive achievements in the 2024 Construction Management Competition," said Randy Doxzon, Director of Workforce Development & Apprenticeship Resources.

Congrats to the Pennsylvania College of Technology team on their achievements and recognition!

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SAFETY IN FOCUS UNDERSTANDING OSHA RECORDKEEPING Standards in General Industry and Construction: Including Electronic Submission

BY: CARLEY SMITH, CESCO, PRESIDENT/OWNER OF CARLEY SMITH SAFETY SERVICES

Hello everyone! I’m Carley, a 25+ year safety expert with a passion for ensuring construction sites stay as safe as possible. Having worked closely with construction teams, I’ve witnessed firsthand how difficult it can be to navigate safety regulations. One of the most important (yet often overlooked) aspects of maintaining a safe work environment is staying compliant with OSHA recordkeeping guidelines.

Accurate recordkeeping is not just a regulatory requirement, it's a critical part of any safety program. For employers in both general industry and construction, OSHA requires the tracking of specific injuries and illnesses through recordkeeping systems that help identify risks, improve safety protocols, and maintain compliance. And now, electronic reporting plays a role in modernizing these processes.

Recently, OSHA streamlined the recordkeeping process, making it easier to submit records electronically.

In this article, we’ll break down the key aspects of OSHA recordkeeping requirements, including who must keep records, what needs to be documented, and the new criteria for submitting records electronically. Whether you're in general industry, construction, or both… understanding these standards ensures your business stays compliant and helps create a safer workplace.

1. Why OSHA Recordkeeping Matters OSHA recordkeeping is important for several reasons: • Tracking Safety Trends: By keeping accurate records of injuries and illnesses, employers can identify patterns that lead to targeted interven- tions, in turn reducing future incidents.

• Regulatory Compliance: OSHA mandates record keeping to ensure that workplaces are following safety regulations. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines or legal issues.

• Injury Prevention: These records provide valuable data that help prevent future accidents. Regular review of injury trends can lead to improvements 9

in safety measures and protocols.

• Insurance and Workers’ Compensation: Accurate records are necessary when dealing with workers' compensation claims and insurance (loss run) reports related to workplace injuries and illnesses.

2. Who Must Keep Records?

OSHA requires most employers in general industry and construction to keep records of work-related injuries and illnesses. However, there are a few exceptions and nuances: • Size of the Company: Employers with 11 or more employees must maintain OSHA records (unless they are in a low-hazard industry).

• Industry Classification: Certain high-risk industries, like construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, must keep records even if they have fewer than 11 employees.

• Exemptions: Employers with 10 or fewer employees and those in low-hazard industries (this does not include construction) are typically exempt from the full recordkeeping require- ments but must still report severe injuries.

3. What Records Must Be Kept?

Employers must track certain work-related injuries and illnesses using the following forms: A. OSHA 300 Log (Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses)- The OSHA 300 Log is the primary document for recording work-related injuries and illnesses. The key criteria for recordability include: • Work-Relatedness: The injury or illness must have occurred during employment.

• Recordable Injury or Illness: Injuries that result in death, days away from work, restricted work, medical treatment beyond first aid, or loss of consciousness must be logged.

The log includes detailed information such as the date of the injury, the type of injury (e.g., fracture, sprain), and whether the injury led to any lost time or restricted duties.

B. OSHA 301 Form (Injury and Illness Incident

Report)- The OSHA 301 Form provides detailed information for each recordable injury or illness, such as: • The nature of the injury or illness (e.g., strain, chemical exposure).

• The body part affected.

• A detailed description of the incident (e.g., how the injury occurred, the cause).

Form 301 may be supplemented with your own Company form, provided all required information is included. This information will be readily at your fingertips when electronically submitting, if necessary.

C. OSHA 300A Summary (Summary of Work Related Injuries and Illnesses)- At the end of each calendar year, employers must complete the OSHA 300A Summary form, which summarizes data from the OSHA 300 Log. This summary includes: • The total number of injuries and illnesses.

• The number of days away from work, restricted duties, or job transfers.

• Rates of injury and illness in the workplace.

The 300A Summary must be posted in a visible area (e.g., near the time clock) from February 1 through April 30 of the following year. This is the same form that should be used for contractor prequalification submittals when asked to provide OSHA Logs, as employee privacy is protected. No names or specifics are noted on the 300A. FYI, if Form 300 is request- ed, it may be submitted with redacted names, protecting employee privacy.

4. Electronic Submission of Records: What’s New? In an effort to make recordkeeping more efficient, OSHA now requires certain employers to submit their OSHA 300A Summary electronically.

This change is designed to enhance transparency, allow for more effective tracking of safety trends, and make it easier for OSHA to spot patterns that require regulatory attention.

Which Employers Must Submit Records Electronically?

As of recent updates, certain employers are required to submit the OSHA 300A Summary form electronically. The criteria for electronic submission are as follows: • All employers with 250 or more employees who are required to keep OSHA records must submit the OSHA 300A Summary form electronically.

• Employers with 20-249 employees in certain high-risk industries (including construction, manufacturing, and healthcare) must submit the OSHA 300A form electronically. The NAICS code

(North American Industry Classification System) for construction generally falls under Sector 23.

Use your Company NAICS code to determine if applicable.

• Employers with fewer than 20 employees are not required to submit electronic records but must still comply with the standard record keeping requirements.

How Do Employers Submit Records Electronically?

OSHA has established an online portal for electronic submission of records. Employers can submit their OSHA 300A Summary data through the OSHA Injury Tracking Application (ITA), available on the OSHA website. Here’s how the process works: A. Create an Account: Employers must create an account in the OSHA ITA system.

B. Log In and Submit Data: Once an account is created, employers can log in and submit the OSHA 300A Summary data for the previous year.

This is an annual requirement.

C. Deadline for Submission: The submission of records typically has a March 2nd deadline for each calendar year. Employers must submit their data by this date to remain compliant.

D. Data Integrity: Employers should double-check their records for accuracy before submission.

OSHA may request additional information or follow up with questions if discrepancies are found.

5. When to Report Severe Injuries to OSHA Regardless of the recordkeeping requirements, all employers must report certain severe injuries to OSHA promptly. These incidents must be reported separately from the routine recordkeeping process.

The requirements are: • Fatalities and inpatient hospitalizations must be reported to OSHA within 8 hours.

• Amputations and eye loss must be reported within 24 hours.

Employers should contact OSHA immediately: • Call the local OSHA office. Use this link to find your PA Area Office: https://www.osha.gov/contactus/bystate/PA/areaoffice • Use the online reporting system: https://www.osha.gov/ords/ser/serform.html • Call the OSHA 24-hour hotline at 1-800-321-6742 (OSHA).

6. Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Recordkeeping • Not Recording Required Incident: Employers sometimes fail to recognize what qualifies as a continued on next page

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SAFETY TRAINING AT ABC KEYSTONE First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification March 18 @ 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm March 24 @ 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm April 7 @ 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm ASHE Healthcare Construction Certificate Workshop March 25 & 26 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Excavation & Trench Safety for Competent Persons March 19 @ 7:30 am - 3:30 pm Mobile Elevating Work Platform Training March 26 @ 7:30 am - 1:30 pm Infection Control Risk Management (ICRA)

"recordable" injury or illness. Remember, any • Not Recording Required Incident: Employers sometimes fail to recognize what qualifies as a "recordable" injury or illness.

Remember, any work-related injury that leads to lost time, medical treatment beyond first aid, or certain other conditions must be recorded.

• Inaccurate or Incomplete Logs: OSHA requires that logs be accurate and up to date. Missing details or incorrect information can result in penalties or missed safety improvements.

• Failing to Submit Electronic Records: Employers subject to electronic reporting must ensure they meet submission deadlines (March 2nd) and submit the required information through the OSHA Injury Tracking Application (ITA).

Final Thoughts OSHA recordkeeping standards are crucial for ensuring workplace safety and compliance. Whether you're in general industry or construction, understanding the requirements—and keeping your records accurate and timely—is key to identifying hazards, preventing future injuries, and staying compliant with OSHA regulations. The introduction of electronic submission streamlines the process, but employers must remain diligent in their recordkeeping practices.

By keeping your OSHA logs up to date, submitting your 300A Summary electronically (if applicable), and taking action based on injury trends, you’re helping to build a safer workplace for everyone. If you have any questions or need clarification on any aspect of OSHA recordkeeping or electronic reporting, feel free to reach out. Stay safe, stay compliant, and keep building a safety culture that empowers success! For more information contact, Carley Smith at carley@csmithsafety.com

April 2 & 4 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Arc Flash & Energized Electrical Work Safety April 3 @ 7:30 am - 3:30 pm Rough-Terrain Forklift Training April 4 @ 7:30 am - 3:30 pm

Register Today!

ABCKEYSTONE.ORG

Ensure employees are returning home safe to families and loved ones every day. Submit your STEP safety self-assessment in as little as 30 minutes! There is no cost to participate.

Take the first STEP! Apply Today!

WWW.ABC.ORG/ABCSTEP

EMERGING LEADER SPOTLIGHT BUILDING SMARTER:

Key Insurance Insights for Contractors in 2025 BY: JAMAL EVANS, BUSINESS INSURANCE ASSOCIATE MCCONKEY INSURANCE AND BENEFITS

The construction industry is gearing up for a dynamic 2025; staying ahead of evolving insurance and safety requirements is critical for contractors to protect their businesses and employees. Here is a breakdown of the key insurance and risk management updates you need to know as the year kicks off.

1. Insurance Market Outlook for Q1 2025 The insurance market continues to present challenges for contractors, such as rising claim costs and stricter underwriting. However, rates are stabilizing compared to the sharp spikes of 2022 and 2023 for some lines of coverage. Contractors should still prepare for firm rates across general liability, excess liability, property insurance, and auto insurance, with auto liability seeing high single-digit increases partially due to increased litigation. The workers’ compensation market remains stable with minimal rate increases in most regions, though businesses with subpar claims histories may face higher premiums. With competition among carriers remaining strong, it is worth reviewing your current insurance program to ensure your pricing is competitive and aligned with market trends. Additionally, contractors with above-average loss history continue to see benefits from group captives.

2. Key Considerations for Equipment Leasing to Reduce Risk Leasing equipment is common in construction, but understanding lease terms is critical to managing risks.

Focus on indemnity provisions, insurance requirements, and warranty disclaimers to ensure proper coverage and liability allocation. Be cautious of "Hell and High Water" clauses, which require continued payments regardless of circumstances, and clarify responsibilities for casualty losses. Review default and termination terms to avoid unforeseen costs, and ensure all agreements are clearly documented to prevent disputes.

Proper lease negotiation and review can protect your business and maintain profitability. Be sure your insurance agent reviews your lease agreements to confirm your insurance will cover ongoing rental obligations.

3. Pennsylvania’s 8.67% Workers’ Compensation Rate Cut In April 2025, Pennsylvania will implement an 8.67% decrease in workers’ compensation loss costs – a welcome development for contractors in the Keystone State. Potential premium savings will vary depending on your specific workers' compensation insurer's filings and how they adopt these changes. This could be an opportune time to shop your workers' compensation insurance and review whether your insurer has adjusted their pricing to reflect the rate decrease, ensuring your program remains competitive.

4. Join the Mid-Atlantic Risk Management Alliance If you found this article insightful, consider joining the Mid-Atlantic Risk Management Alliance, a collaborative group dedicated to promoting and enhancing safety and risk management practices. This roundtable brings together leaders from locally owned businesses, including safety decision-makers from across the region for sessions designed to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and address pressing industry challenges.

For more information, contact: Jamal Evans, McConkey Insurance & Benefits (717) 755-9266 jevans@ekmcconkey.com

Would you like to be featured in the next Emerging Leaders Spotlight?

Contact: Laura Chanoski at laura@abckeystone.org 12 20

ADVOCACY UPDATE PA BUDGET: PICK A NUMBER BY: JIM WILLSHIER, DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

For those following Pennsylvania politics, February marks the time when the governor presents his proposed budget and policy priorities for the year. This kicks off the negotiation process, which is supposed to lead to a state funding plan by June 30. During this time, lawmakers work to hash out policies and agreements that are necessary to implement the budget.

For 2025, Governor Shapiro has unveiled his $51.4 billion budget proposal. While there are no major concerns for our industry or the business community as a whole, there are some potential warning signs to keep an eye on. The budget relies on two key policy changes to meet its targets. First, there’s the expected legalization of marijuana. Second, there’s a proposal for expanded taxation and regulation of skill games.

Combined, these changes are expected to generate at least $1.3 billion for the state over the next five years.

However, the details on how these policies will be implemented remain unclear, making it difficult to gauge the true potential revenue.

The proposal includes expected increases in funding, such as $380 million for transportation infrastructure and significant boosts for public education, including redirecting cyber charter school funds back to brick-and-mortar school districts. The governor has also called for a specific increase in the minimum wage to $15/hour.

On a positive note, there’s no immediate push for higher business taxes or a Personal Income Tax increase.

However, the bad news is that the Independent Fiscal Office (IFO) has warned that the state’s $3 billion surplus is quickly depleting due to ongoing structural deficits. The IFO has even suggested that the governor’s current strategies could burn through Pennsylvania’s surplus in as little as 1-2 years. It's worth noting that the governor is up for re-election next year.

The budget also revives unresolved issues from previous years, such as school choice, which have yet to be addressed in the last two budgets—even though the governor made concessions on this issue in his first budget.

This will be a challenging budget to navigate, and passing it on time may be nearly impossible. With an ambitious governor seeking higher office at the negotiating table, it remains to be seen what compromises will be made and which issues will become sticking points.

Questions about ABC Government Affairs & Politics?

Contact: Jim Willshier jim@abckeytone.org or (717) 653-8106

Download the ABC Action app today!

Stay updated on legislation affecting merit shop policies and receive tailored responses to our legislators.

ACTION

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MARCH

MARCH

3/5

Delegating for Results Part of the Professional Development Series

3/19

3/6

Scaffold Safety for Competent Persons

3/10, 3/17 & 3/24 Dynamic Crew Leadership

3/20 & 4/3 STP: Contract Documents Part of the Superintendent Training Program

3/11

Regional Construction Wake-up Call: Southwest Region - Altoona, PA

3/24

First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification

3/11

Attitude Adjustments Part of the Leadership Development Series

3/24

Bluebeam® Courses: Free Launch Webinar

3/12

Regional Construction Wake-up Call: North Region - Northumberland, PA

3/12

HR Compliance Part of the Building a Better Crew Series

3/25 & 3/26 ASHE Healthcare Construction Certificate Workshop

ABC KEYSTONE EVENTS

3/11, 3/12 & 3/13 Construction Wars Presented by Lezzer Lumber 3/13

15

The Power of Understanding Conflict & Games Playing Part of the Power of People Series

ABC KEYSTONE EVENTS

Meet the Generals - Manheim Office Presented by: Central Penn Propane, LLC

3/26

Mobile Elevating Work Platform Training

3/26

Sizing Up Your Digital Footprint Part of the Marketing Boot Camp Series

NITTANY VALLEY OFFICE EVENTS 3/6

Meet the Generals Nittany Valley Bellefonte, PA

3/18

Motivating Fellow Employees Part of the Leadership 2.0 Series

3/18

Hot Topic Seminar Stop Overpaying: Mastering Annualization & Fringe Benefits Part of the Hot Topic Seminar Series

APRIL

3/19

Excavation & Trench Safety for Competent Persons

4/2

3/19

HR’s Strategic, Operational & Administrative Roles Part of the Human Resources Management Academy

ABC KEYSTONE EVENTS Building Accountability Professional Development Series

4/2 & 4/4 Infection Control Risk Management (ICRA) 4/3

Skills USA State HVAC Competition ABC Keystone, Manheim Office

4/3

Arc Flash & Energized Electrical Work Safety for Competent Persons

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

APRIL

APRIL

4/4

4/16 & 4/17 Bluebeam® Reading Construction Documents

ABC KEYSTONE EVENTS Rough-Terrain Forklift Training

4/7, 4/14, 4/21 & 4/28 Electricity for Refrigeration and HVAC 4/7

First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification

4/7, 4/14 & 4/21 SalesWorks!

ABC KEYSTONE EVENTS

4/16 & 5/21 Basic Blueprint Reading 4/17

Executive Leader Contractor Peer Group

4/17

The Power of Communications Part of the Power of People Series

4/8

Regional Construction Wake-up Call: Southeast Region - Manheim, PA Sponsored By: RKL

4/21 & 4/22 OSHA 10-Hour Construction

4/8

Networking, Referrals & Strategic Alliances Part of the Leadership Development Series

4/21, 4/22, 4/28 & 4/29 OSHA 30-Hour Construction

4/8

Setting & Achieving GOALS Part of the Leadership Development Series

4/21

Bluebeam® Baseline Basics

4/8

Hot Topic Seminar Wage Classifications Uncovered: Stay Compliant & Competitive Part of the Hot Topic Seminar Series

4/22

Spring Mixer: Location Lancaster, PA

4/23

Is AI 4U? Part of the Marketing Boot Camp Series

4/23

Bluebeam® Material Takeoff & Estimates: Basics

4/9

HR Accomodations Part of the Building a Better Crew Series

4/9

Human Resources Contractors Peer Group

4/11

Construction Estimating Principles & Application

4/11

ABC Keystone Night at Williams Grove Speedway & Tailgate Party Presented by: From the Ground Up Landscaping

4/15

Negotiating for Win-Win Outcomes Part of the Leadership 2.0 Series

4/16

Employment Laws, Compliance, and Minimizing Risk Part of the Human Resources Management Academy

4/24 & 5/17 STP: Leadership and Motivation 4/24

Bluebeam® Advanced Material Takeoff & Estimates

4/29

Bluebeam® for Administrative Professionals

4/29

Hot Topic Seminar Davis-Bacon Fringe Benefits: Retirement, Self-Funded Medical & Unfunded Plans Part of the Hot Topic Seminar Series

NITTANY VALLEY OFFICE EVENTS 4/3

Regional Construction Wake-up Call Sponsored By: Boyer & Ritter

4/17

Spring Mixer Nittany Valley Location: Mifflinburg, PA 16 20

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Moser Roofing Solutions, LLC Kara Stager, VP of Operations

SHV Partners Ruby Nolt, Process Consultant & Community Builder

1805 Old Homestead Lane Lancaster, PA 17601

342 North Queen Street, Warehouse D Lancaster, PA 17603

www.moserroofingsolutions.com

www.scotthackman.com

(717) 690-2581

(717) 413-8735

kara_stager@moserroofingsolutions.com

ruby@scotthackman.com

Sponsored By: Robb Beiler

Wohlsen Construction Company

Sponsored By: Robb Beiler

Wohlsen Construction Company

Signarama Lancaster Lynsey Washington, Project Manager

Restoration Relief, Inc. Casey Tommasi, Vice President, Business Development & Marketing

218 W Orange Street Lancaster, PA 17603 www.signarama.com/locations/pa-lancaster

350 Railroad Avenue Ephrata, PA 17580

(717) 397-3173

www.restorationrelief.com

lynsey@signarama-lancaster.com

(717) 656-7234

Sponsored By: Allen Landis

Fully Promoted of Lancaster

Top Notch View, LLC Nathan Creitz, Owner

ctommasi@restorationrelief.com Sponsored By: Ed Engle, Smucker Company

Mike Snyder, H.B. McClure

Lancaster County Motors (LCM Fleet) Nickolas Pitarra, Director of Sales

2384 Romig Road Gilbertsville, PA 19525

804 Lancaster Pike Quarryville, PA 17566

(610) 420-1978

www.lcmfleet.com

topnotchviewllc@yahoo.com

(717) 314-1912 npitarra@lcmotors.net

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2

TradeWorX, LLC Shaun Heckman, Executive VP and COO

Arko Flooring, LLC AK Kazimi, CEO

1000 Integrity Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15235

615 Graham Street Harrisburg, PA 17110

www.tradeworxusa.com

www.arkoflooring.com

(412) 956-5925

(717) 255-0056

shaun@tradeworxusa.com

ak@arkoflooring.com Sponsored By: Jon Sensenig,

Speedwell Construction, Inc John Lehmann, Poole Anderson Construction, LLC

Delaware Valley Concrete Co., Inc. Lisa Zoller, Business Development Executive 248 East County Line Road Hatboro, PA 19040

PA Aggregates and Concrete Association Susan Armstrong, Director of Specifications & Sustainability

www.delawarevalleyconcrete.com

2040 Linglestown Road, Suite 204 Harrisburg, PA 17110

(215) 675-8900

www.pacaweb.org

lzoller@delvalconcrete.com

(717) 234-2603 susan@pacaweb.org

Krislee Electric, LLC Gunner Holtz, Vice President

GDC IT Solutions Scott Gross, Business Development

45 Cherry Street Seven Valleys, PA 17360

1144 Kennebec Drive Chambersburg, PA 17201

www.krisleellc.com

www.gdcitsolutions.com

(717) 229-2721

(717) 262-2080

gholtz@krisleellc.com

scottgross@gdcit.com

Sponsored By: Corbin Beittel

Warfel Construction Company

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MERIT SHOP PROUD SAXTON & STUMP’S ANDREW REILLY APPOINTED CHAIR OF A REGIONAL FEDERAL COMMISSION BY U.S. SENATOR DAVE MCCORMICK U.S. Senator David McCormick (R-PA) has tapped Saxton & Stump attorney and shareholder Andrew J. Reilly to chair a commission that will recommend candidates for U.S. Attorney and U.S. Marshal positions in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Senator McCormick also appointed two other leaders to head up the regional commissions for Pennsylvania's middle and western districts. Reilly and these appointees will oversee the vetting and selection processes for the U.S. Attorney and U.S. Marshal positions across the Commonwealth. The chairs will ensure the nominations align with the highest standards of capability and service.

In a statement announcing the commission appointments, McCormick emphasized the importance of strong federal law enforcement leadership, stating "Pennsylvanians deserve to have strong U.S. Attorneys and Marshals working for them to uphold the rule of law, prosecute criminals, and keep our communities safe." He also expressed confidence in the commission chairs, noting that their leadership will ensure exceptional candidates are selected.

Reilly joined Saxton & Stump in 2021 and brings decades of leadership experience and serving public and private sector clients in municipal law and litigation. He has a distinguished record of community involvement in Delaware County and has served on municipal, county, state, and education boards in government and the nonprofit sectors. Reilly is

#ABCMeritShopProud

also an influential figure in Pennsylvania politics, currently serving as the National Committeeman and Southeast Caucus Chair for the Republican Party of Pennsylvania. He has also served on the Federal Magistrate selection panel and the Pennsylvania Disciplinary Board, underscoring his deep understanding of the legal and regulatory landscape.

"I am honored to take on this responsibility and help identify individuals who will serve with integrity and uphold the law," Reilly said. "The roles of U.S. Attorney and U.S. Marshal are critical to maintaining not only public safety, but also public trust in our justice system. I look forward to working with my colleagues to recommend excellent candidates for Senator McCormick’s consideration."

"Andy’s extensive legal experience and commitment to public service make him an outstanding choice to lead this commission," said Saxton & Stump CEO James W. Saxton. "His leadership will be instrumental in ensuring that the selection process identifies highly qualified individuals who will serve with distinction in these critical federal roles."

Reilly’s appointment reflects Saxton & Stump’s growing influence in the legal and governmental sectors, further solidifying the firm’s reputation for excellence in legal representation and public service.

www.saxtonstump.com

For inclusion in future issues of the Merit Shop Spokesman, please send your press releases to: Rebecca Wolf | rebecca@abckeytone.org (717) 653-8106

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MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES Congratulations to these members celebrating milestone anniversaries in March 2025!

65 YEARS CMC, Inc. 15 YEARS Flagger Force 10 YEARS CH+N Site Construction, Inc. River Supply, Inc. 5 YEARS Independent Refrigeration Services, Inc. Princeton Hydro, LLC

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WINTER & SPRING TOPIC: 128 KEYS TO MERIT SHOP POLICY IN 2025 How ABC can move our policy priorities in the state legislature with a split legislature and narrow majority PRESENTER: Jim Willshier, Director of Government Affairs, ABC Keystone Pennsylvania is uniquely positioned with a split legislature—Republican control in the Senate and a Democratic majority in the House—yet neither chamber holds a significant enough majority to push through a unified agenda. At the same time, the state still has outdated, anti-competitive labor laws that have been in place since the 1960s, which urgently need modernization. This Wake-Up Call will cover: • An overview of current laws and regulations that are hindering merit shops and taxpayers, along with why these policies must be updated.

• A look at how ABC successfully opposed harmful policies pushed by organized labor and legislators from both parties last year.

• Key highlights of this year’s proposed state budget and its potential impact on the business community.

• An outline of ABC’s legislative priorities for the year and how we might leverage the narrow majorities to push for compromise that benefits all workers in Pennsylvania.

MARCH 11 Southwest Region

Sponsored by:

Leonard S. Fiore, Inc. Altoona, PA

APRIL 3 Nittany Valley Region Nittany Valley Office Howard, PA

MARCH 12 North Region Zartman Construction Northumberland, PA

Sponsored by:

APRIL 8 Southeast Region Manheim Office Manheim, PA

For More Information Contact: Mike Bachman, Director of Membership mike@abckeystone.org

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Sponsored by:

REGISTER TODAY! ABCKEYSTONE.ORG

Sponsored by:

2025 C.O.R.E. SPONSORS SAPPHIRE SPONSORS

PREMIER SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS Acuity Advisors and CPAs, LLP Aerotek, Inc. Barley Snyder Brubaker, Inc. EHD

Garrety Glass, Inc. Horst Construction Co. Hursh Painting Co., Inc Martins Flooring MVE Group

M. Potteiger, Inc. Providence Engineering RKL LLP S&T Bank Saul Ewing LLP

Fulton Bank D.E. Gemmill, Inc. Hess Auctioneers, LLC Leer Electric, Inc.

Paramount Contracting, Inc. R.A. Walton & Company, Inc. The Witmer Group

SILVER SPONSORS Associated Products Services, Inc. Bertz, Hess & Co. Brown Plus C Mechanical Services

BRONZE SPONSORS Commonwealth Fire Protection Co. David Miller/Associates, Inc. ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC Remco, Inc.

Smucker Company Trout CPA

135 Shellyland Road Manheim, PA 17545

save the date | sponsorhips available!

april 17 | nittany valley mifflinburg, pa | 5 pm - 7 pm

april 22 | manheim lancaster, pa | 5 pm - 7 pm