Governor Gavin Newsom released his May Revision of the 2025–26 California state budget on May 14, 2025, announcing a projected $12 billion deficit. The Governor proposed a $322 billion spending plan, which includes several key proposals:
Transportation
The May Revise proposes $17.6 million one-time from the State Highway Account to support the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Game in Los Angeles, including facility development, ongoing planning efforts, and work on the Games Route Network project.
United Contractors (UCON) is proud to announce our sponsorship of Construction Safety Week 2025, taking place May 5–9, 2025. As a leading trade association supporting 500+ union-affiliated contractors across California, UCON is committed to promoting the highest standards of safety in the construction industry.
At the end of 2025, several key provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are set to expire. This landmark legislation, enacted in 2017, brought significant changes to the tax code, many of which were designed to be temporary. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most impactful provisions that will sunset:
United Contractors Scholarship Awards Program is now open and accepting applications. This is a great opportunity to win money towards future educational expenses.
Recognizing Excellence, Awareness, and Leadership in Safety - recognizing the safest and most improved companies in the industry.
Submit your application for UCON's 2024 R.E.A.L. Safety Awards Program. All UCON contractor members in good standing are eligible to apply for any of the award categories. OSHA documents are from California (Cal/OSHA).
Man-Hours Categories
Most Improved Safety Rating
Most Unique Safety Project
Safety Hero of the Year
No previous winning project can be entered for the same award.
In the wake of recent wildfires, many contractors have been asking how they can get involved in debris removal efforts. This bulletin provides key details on the cleanup process, who is spearheading the effort, and how interested contractors can participate.
Key takeaway: Pre-registration is essential to be considered for subcontracting opportunities.
Q: What does the wildfire debris removal process entail?
The wildfire debris removal process in Los Angeles County is structured into two phases:
Except for recordkeeping requirements, the COVID-19 Prevention Regulations, Title 8, California Code of Regulations (8 CCR) sections 3205, 3205.1, 3205.2, and 3205.3, will be sunset on February 3, 2025. This means that, as of February 3, 2025, there will no longer be a specific set of regulatory requirements relating to COVID-19 prevention in the workplace. Employers must still maintain a safe and healthy workplace as required by their Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) and 8 CCR section 3203.
We know that our members are concerned about the Executive Orders coming out of the new administration, especially the possibility of workplace raids by Immigration Compliance & Enforcement (ICE). The current focus is on targeting non-citizens with serious criminal convictions and those who have failed to depart the U.S. after being ordered to do so by an Immigration Judge. However, the scope could widen.
This month, UCON sponsored two critical pieces of legislation: One aims to enhance the safety of our workers, and the second will improve vital cash flow for our members performing work in the private sector.
As fires continue to affect the Los Angeles area, we want to ensure that you have the necessary resources to protect your teams and operations. We know worker safety remains a top priority, especially when dealing with wildfire smoke and unhealthy air conditions. Below are essential resources to support you during this challenging time:
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (Air District) announces grant opportunities currently available to replace off-road equipment through the Air District’s various grant programs.
Portable Diesel Engine Airborne Toxics Control Measure
On January 1, 2025, all diesel engines with Tier 2 and Tier 3 emissions manufactured prior to 2009 become prohibited from operating in CA unless already designated low use or emergency use.
Clean Truck Check Program (CTC)
The 90-day compliance test window for diesel trucks with GVWR greater than 14,000 lbs. (Class 4 and up) with registrations due in January or July 2025 is now open.
Thank you to all of our members who responded to our annual membership survey. Your input helps us to continue exceeding your expectations and delivering the highest level of service in the industry.
We are happy to report our results. Click the images below to see how we did.
If you subcontract trucking services, your liabilities and responsibilities are changing on January 1, 2025, when the construction trucking exemption in AB 5 expires.
If you haven’t started already, you need to take steps NOW to review your operations and make necessary changes.
UCON has the following resources available for you now – you can click on the links below (member log-in needed) and also find them in the Contractor Resources Library.
Information on CA SB 253/261 and the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI)
ESG:
California has passed two new laws requiring businesses to disclose their carbon emissions and climate-related financial risks. The Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act (Senate Bill 253) requires large businesses operating in California to publicly report their greenhouse gas emissions. The Climate-Related Financial Risk Act (Senate Bill 261) mandates that companies disclose the threats they face as a result of climate change.
SB 253: Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act:
40 years ago, I walked into a little office in Dublin, California, to interview for a job. 105 people applied. All wanting to be the association’s Field Rep. A fancy name for an entry-level position. The 6 contractors interviewing me wore jeans, boots, and Rolexes. They also had no bullshit looks on their faces. I wore a burgundy Pierre Cardin 3-piece suit. I drove a 1981 yellow Toyota. I wanted it bad. At the end, I didn’t care about the pay, terms, or benefits. I knew right then I wanted to work for those guys—no matter what. And those people turned out to be all of you.
Learn about recent discussions with DIR on system challenges, and next steps for support.
Yesterday, several union contractor associations met with senior management at DIR concerning well-documented problems with the new eCPR system. Since the system was adopted, there have been countless glitches and licensees have had difficulty submitting eCPR.
This guide was developed in collaboration with our partners at CA Alliance for Jobs and Rebuild CA. All positions have been reviewed and approved by the UCON Board of Directors. This is not a comprehensive summary of infrastructure ballot measures across the state. There may be additional local infrastructure investment measures for your consideration that UCON has not reviewed or endorsed.
Over the weekend, Governor Newsom signed AB 1034 into law. Co-sponsored by UCON, AB 1034 provides vital protections for our union contractors by allowing them to secure an exemption from PAGA lawsuits through their CBAs. AB 1034 was UCON’s top priority bill and will save our contractors millions of dollars in frivolous lawsuits, while strengthening the business environment for union contractors.
Thank you to every member who took action, and to our union partners for their joint advocacy on this important issue.
UCON Praises Recent PAGA Reform Package, but Continues to Fight for Union-Contractor Carve-Out from PAGA.
On July 1, the business community scored an important win when Governor Newsom signed an essential PAGA reform package into law. While the reforms will greatly minimize the shakedown lawsuits that hurt employers, UCON’s top priority remains an extension of the 2016 bill that allows union-signatory contractors to bargain an exemption from PAGA through the CBA agreements. The safe harbor from PAGA has been a vital benefit for union-signatory contractors and our union partners.
Updated UCON Product–Stay Compliant and Download Today
The updated UCON Safety Handbook is here! This valuable industry-tailored resource is available to all UCON contractor members at no cost. It is available to Associate Members and non-members for $750.
If you bid and perform work for Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), United Contractors invites you to join us for the next OCTA Industry Liaison Meeting at the OCTA offices in Orange on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at 1:00 PM (photo credit: OCTA offices on March 4, 2024, Erika Taylor, Voice of OC)
Agenda topics will include:
OCTA 24-Month Look-Ahead
Project Updates
DBE/SBE Goals
This will be an in-person meeting with limited capacity.
If you bid and perform work for Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), United Contractors invites you to join us for the next OCTA Industry Liaison Meeting at the OCTA offices in Orange on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at 1:00 PM (photo credit: OCTA offices on March 4, 2024, Erika Taylor, Voice of OC)
Agenda topics will include:
OCTA 24-Month Look-Ahead
Project Updates
DBE/SBE Goals
This will be an in-person meeting with limited capacity.
The DIR’s online portal for contractors to register with the DIR and submit electronic certified payroll records (“eCPR’s”) has had severely limited functionality since the launch of the new DIR eCPR system on June 24, 2024, making it impossible for contractors to either submit certified payroll online or to register or renew registration with the DIR. As members are aware, the only way to submit eCPR’s to the Labor Commissioner is through DIR Public Works Website Services. The DIR recognizes this problem and has posted the following notice on its webpage (Shown in image):
United Contractors (UCON) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 UCON Scholarship Awards Program. This year, thirteen exceptional students have been selected to receive a combined total of $48,000 to further their educational and career aspirations. These awards honor their outstanding academic performance and dedication to positively impacting the communities they aim to serve.
The Cal/OSHA Standards Board Approves Indoor Heat Illness Regulation
The Cal/OSHA Standards Board approved an indoor heat illness regulation. The new regulation requires indoor workplaces to be cooled below 87 degrees Fahrenheit if feasible when employees are present, and below 82 degrees if feasible in places where workers wear protective clothing that restricts heat removal or work in high radiant heat areas.
If you bid and perform work for the Port of Los Angeles, United Contractors invites you to join us for an in-person Port of LA Industry Liaison Meeting at the Port of LA Headquarters in San Pedro on Wednesday, July 31 at 10:00 AM (photo credit Port of LA).
Wednesday, July 31, 2024 - 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Port of Los Angeles
425 South Palos Verdes Street
San Pedro, CA 90731
If you bid and perform work for LA Metro, United Contractors invites you to join us for the next LA Metro Industry Liaison Meeting at LA Metro Headquarters in Los Angeles on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 7:30 AM (photo credit: LA Metro)
Agenda topics will include a look-ahead on projects and LA Metro Headquarters updates and Q&A.
This will be an in-person meeting with limited capacity (call-in, audio only, may be available upon request).
The US Weather Service has issued excessive heat warnings and heat advisories for regions throughout California. Temperatures will be +/-100F degrees. To protect yourself and your employees, make sure you have your Heat Illness Prevention Plan in place. Heat illness can result if precautions are not taken.
If you bid and perform work for the Port of Long Beach, United Contractors invites you to join us for an in-person Port of Long Beach Industry Liaison Meeting:
Tuesday, September 17
2:30 to 3:30 PM
Port of Long Beach offices Administrative Bldg.
415 W. Ocean Blvd
Long Beach, CA, 90802
The next Industry Liaison Meeting with the Port of Los Angeles will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, at the Port of LA office in San Pedro. (Photo credit, Port of Los Angeles)
Agenda - TBD.
This will be an in-person meeting with limited capacity. Please contact Ray Baca for more information and to sign up for this important discussion.
If you bid and perform work for the Los Angeles World Airport (LAWA), United Contractors invites you to join us for an in-person Meeting on Friday, June 21,10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. the meeting will be held at the 8090 Westchester Parkway, Trailer N location. For more information, please contact Ray Baca
June 18, 2:30 PM at the Port of Long Beach offices
If you bid and perform work for the Port of Long Beach, United Contractors invites you to join us for an in-person Port of Long Beach Industry Liaison Meeting on Tuesday, June 18, 2:30 PM at the Port of Long Beach offices located at the Administrative Bldg. 415 W. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA, 90802
Welcome Michael Donlon, PE,CSP. Michael (Mike) Donlon brings more than three decades of experience in industry safety and will advance UCON's mission of empowering, advocating for, and supporting California’s union contractors.
UCON is excited to announce the addition of Michael Donlon, PE, CSP, as our new Chief Safety Consultant. Michael brings over 30 years of construction, industrial, and electrical safety experience to the role and will serve as an excellent addition to UCON’s team of technical experts and advocates providing direct support to our members.
In 2018, UCON was instrumental in securing PAGA waivers for construction companies under the law and in our union agreements. However, securing the waiver came at the price… The existing law enabling PAGA waivers contains a sunset clause, meaning collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) entered into after January 1, 2025 would not be eligible for PAGA waivers under the law. UCON is taking the lead for the industry to find a spot bill that would eliminate or extend the sunset.
We have been notified that some contractors who should qualify for the COVID Paid Sick Leave Grant Program are being incorrectly rejected based on not meeting the “26-49” employee count despite having a core employee headcount that meets the criteria.
The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is excited to invite business owners and other stakeholders to four (4) stakeholder engagement sessions to provide opportunities to help Caltrans improve its procurement policies and its inclusion of person of color (POC)-, woman-, and service-disabled veteran (SDV)-owned businesses in its contracting and procurement.
Exciting news! United Contractors Scholarship Awards Program is now open! Don't miss your chance to turn your dreams into reality - up to $60,000 in awards will be distributed this year!
If you're a UCON member affiliate (employee, spouse, registered domestic partner, or dependent), you are eligible to apply under any major or school. We are also accepting applications from California college students (with no relation to UCON) who major in construction management or civil engineering.
UCON recently received numerous reports of Caltrans officials enforcing two costly policies impacting contractors statewide:
(1) claims that prevailing wage coverage extends to the on/off-haul of equipment, and
(2) rejection of special shift pay on eligible weekend work.
In response, UCON drafted and issued letters on behalf of the industry and other associations for Caltrans to immediately correct their practices in alignment with applicable law.
REVISED LEAD REGULATION APPROVED BY CAL/OSHA STANDARDS BOARD DESPITE STRONG INDUSTRY OPPOSITION
On February 15, Cal/OSHA voted 5-2 to approve significant revisions to lead regulations. These changes, slated to take effect from January 2025, have far-reaching implications for our industry. While we firmly oppose these modifications, it is essential to understand their potential impact on your business and our industry. We encourage you to review the following updates carefully. United Contractors and our industry coalition are exploring all legal and administrative options. We will continue to keep you up to date.
United Contractors urges all stakeholders to rally behind Assembly Bill 2809, recognizing its potential to transform California's highways into safer spaces for our workers.
United Contractors, in collaboration with our trade union partners, have introduced Assembly Bill 2809, authored by Assemblyman Matt Haney. This critical legislation would introduce Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) on active highway construction zones. It marks a significant step towards safeguarding the lives of those who tirelessly build our state’s essential highway systems.
Reminder to Post 2023 Annual Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses on February 1
Cal/OSHA is reminding employers in California to post their 2023 annual summary of work-related injuries and illnesses, including those related to COVID-19, by February 1, 2024. The Form 300A summary must be posted each year from February 1 through April 30.
FREE CARB Webinar for Clean Truck Check - Register Now!
California Air Resources Board (CARB) has extended the initial reporting deadline for the Clean Truck Check Program from December 31, 2023 to January 31, 2024.
Port of LA Headquarters, San Pedro or join via Zoom
If you bid and perform work for the Port of Los Angeles, United Contractors invites you to join us for the next hybrid Industry Liaison Meeting at the Port of LA Headquarters located in San Pedro on January 24, 2024.
Wednesday, January 24, 2024, 10:00 AM - Hybrid Meeting.
If you bid and perform work for LA Metro, United Contractors invites you to join us for the next Industry Liaison Meeting at LA Metro Headquarters in Los Angeles on January 17, 2024.
United Contractors is proud to announce the 2023 Fall Scholarship Awards Program recipients. The following students are being recognized by the Les Weed Memorial Scholarship fund, which recognizes individuals making a difference within our organization and industry:
Thank you to all of our members who responded to our annual membership survey. Your input helps us to continue exceeding your expectations and delivering the highest level of service in the industry.
We are thrilled to report our best results to date. Click images below to see how we did.
Clean Truck Check Webinar with Associates Environmental! Register Now!
United Contractors is offering a member only benefit webinar on the California Air Resources Board’s new Clean Truck Check (CTC) Program on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at 10 AM to 11 AM.
The webinar will include a presentation of the Clean Truck Check and a Question-and-Answer session. This webinar will be recorded and archived to UCON’s education library.
Additional resources from CARB will also be presented such as CARB’s CTC Fact Sheets, FAQ’s, Recorded Webinars and Q&A.”
Per Senate Bill 553, every workplace is required to have a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan in place. This information needs to be readily available to all employees and from each manager and supervisor. The plan ensures that all employees, including supervisors and managers, adhere to work practices designed to secure the workplace environment.
Welcome to the eagerly awaited unveiling of the 2023 UCON Scorecard, your comprehensive legislative guide to our organization's achievements and progress over the past year.
Take Action on Important Issues Facing the Industry
The Legislature returned from its four-week summer break on Monday, August 14 to begin their final month of the 2023 session. By-and-large policy committee deadlines have passed and for virtually all bills that remain alive, they are either awaiting consideration on the floor in the second house or – for measures with fiscal impacts – are awaiting hearing in the Appropriations Committee.
UCON's Scholarship Program will be offering a fall season of awards this year. Up to $12,000 will be distrbuted. Applications will be accepted from Friday, September 15th - Thursday, October 19th. To be added to our mailing list, contact Denise Ramirez.
United Contractors Scholarship Committee is proud to announce the 2023 UCON Scholarship Awards Program winners. A record of $60,000 total will be distributed to the following sixteen students, who are being recognized not only for their academic achievements but also for their contributions to the communities they plan to serve.
Is your off-road fleet ready for January 1, 2024, Off-road Diesel Regulation Requirements?
Amendments to CARB’s Off-road Diesel Regulation
As mentioned in a previous issue, the California Air Resources Board approved amendments to the Off-road Diesel Regulation. The amendments included new requirements which start on January 1, 2024.
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan Requirements
In a previous issue, we let you know that the new Construction General Permit will go into effect on September 1, 2023. Over the next couple of months, we are going to take a more in-depth look at the changes. The revised inspection requirements follow.
Hundreds of UCON members urged legislators to pass reform package
On June 26, California’s State Legislature agreed to advance Governor Newsom’s streamlining package that will accelerate delivery of transportation, water, and energy infrastructure projects, unlocking $180 billion in funds over the next decade.
This year has proven to be one of the hottest ones on record. To protect yourself and your employees, make sure you have your Heat Illness Prevention Plan in place. Heat illness can result if precautions are not taken.
After much anticipation, The California Small Business and Nonprofit COVID-19 Relief Grant Program (to pay for COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave) is now taking applications. After significant advocacy from United Contractors, the State of California built and funded the program in the Budget Act of 2022 (AB-178) and authorized it through Assembly Bill 152 in September 2022.
The website for the program has been officially launched and is now taking applications.
Storm Water Annual Report – Industrial General Permit
This is a reminder that the Storm Water Annual Report for industrial facilities for the 2022-2023 reporting period is due July 15, 2023. This requirement only applies to facilities that are currently enrolled under the General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Industrial Activities. The Water Board has created the following guide to assist dischargers with the reporting.
On April 24, 2023, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation. This regulation transitions High Priority Fleets, those with 50 or more trucks or companies with $50 million in revenue with one truck, to zero-emission trucks by 2045. This is the end user regulation to CARB’s zero-emission truck strategy, the first of which, the Advanced Clean Trucks Regulation, was directed at truck manufacturers and was issued a waiver by the United States Environmental Protection Agency in March 2023.
Please visit UCON's Grassroots Advocacy Center to make your voice heard on these three important issues that directly impact union contractors.
❌ OPPOSE Proposed Lead standards revisions, which would present significant costs to contractors and invasive medical and privacy requirements for workers.
❌ OPPOSE SB 365, which would limit the rights of union contractors who collectively bargain.
On March 31, 2023, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) granted California waivers for two California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations aimed at reducing emissions standards for new heavy-duty vehicles.
Uniquely as a state, California can pass air quality regulations more stringent than that of federal regulations. For California’s more stringent regulations on motor vehicle however, the US EPA must grant these regulations waivers.
Construction Storm Water Program - California Construction General Permit Update
On September 8, 2022, the California State Water Resources Control Board approved the new Construction General Permit, an NPDES permit regulating stormwater discharges from construction sites. The new permit will go into effect on September 1, 2023. However, projects that secure coverage under the current permit prior to September 1, 2023, will be grandfathered to the old permit for two years after the effective date.
In January of 2023, CARB instituted a new regulation called the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Regulation. This is a new program to test the emissions systems of nearly all diesel and alternative fuel vehicles over 14,000 lbs. GVW operates in California. This program includes personal vehicles as well.
The Governor's January budget was released on January 10, and is just the beginning of a month-long budget process. The following from Kiana Valentine of Transportation California and Politico Group is an analysis of the Governor’s January Budget for 2023-24, and how it relates specifically to transportation and infrastructure related programs and our industry.
We were excited to help kick off Sue Dyer's Bringing Women into Construction series on her Lead With Trust podcast. During the episode, UCON's EVP, Emily Cohen and Sue discuss the reasons why the number of women in construction, percentage-wise, is abysmal. They discuss the workforce and talent shortage currently being experienced by the industry and the conversations and solutions that they hope will arise from this series.
New Regulation to Remain in Effect Until February 2025
The permanent COVID-19 prevention regulations approved by the Cal/OSHA Standards Board on December 15, 2022, became effective as of February 3, 2023. This new regulation will remain in effect through February 3, 2025. The recordkeeping requirements will remain in effect until February 3, 2026.
In a win for CA employers, on February 15, 2023, the Ninth Circuit issued its opinion regarding California's Assembly Bill 51, legislation which prevented employers from conditioning employment on an employee's acceptance of an arbitration agreement.
The merger will enhance the voice of union-signatory heavy-civil construction contractors across the state while expanding services, advocacy, and support for all UCON members.
United Contractors (UCON) and Engineering Contractors Association (ECA) have finalized a merger-acquisition that will result in ECA joining UCON. The merger will enhance the voice of union-signatory heavy-civil construction contractors across the state while expanding services, advocacy, and support for all UCON members.
As we roll into 2023, we continue to receive questions on what, if any, impact AB 1851 has on the industry and day-to-day operations. The detailed explanation below serves as a primer of what happened and what, if anything, your company needs to do.
Below is a summary of the bills United Contractors advocated on throughout the 2022 Legislative Year, and the results of our efforts.
September 30 marked the official end of the 2022 Legislative Year. Throughout the year, UCON's Advocacy Team -- guided by our Legislative Committee and Board of Directors -- tracked hundreds of bills and worked to actively oppose or support dozens of bills that impact California's union-signatory contractors.
California Construction Employers Secure Some Wins in COVID-19 Paid Leave Relief Package
After significant advocacy from United Contractors, Governor Newsom has signed (AB 152) a budget trailer bill which implements the COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Relief Grant Program.
The critical facts about a new law protecting cannabis users and the construction industry exemption
Governor Newsom has signed AB 2188, which prohibits employers from discriminating in hiring, firing or setting conditions of employment based upon a person’s use of cannabis away from the workplace; or an employer-required drug screening test that has found the person to have non-psychoactive cannabis metabolites in their hair, blood, urine, or other bodily fluids. However, the law "does not apply to an employee in the building and construction trades.”
The Fix Our Roads coalition, of which UCON is a member, has issued a statement in response to the expected vote by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to phase out sales of new gas vehicles by 2035. Last month the coalition sent a letter to Governor Newsom and CARB members outlining their concerns that there is currently no plan to identify a replacement revenue source for tens of billions in gas tax revenues needed to maintain California’s roads.
Opportunities & Updates for UCON’s Southern California Contractors
Meet Clay O'Neal, UCON's Regional VP - Southern California, and learn more about our bargaining and advocacy efforts, educational programs, and networking events. Read more...
United Contractors is fighting to secure tax relief for union signatory contractors (SB 114)
It is unreasonable and unfair to ask our employers, who already pay premium wages, to shoulder the costs of paid leave; especially as the state sits on a historic budget surplus.
UCON Up Front: February 2022, by Joe Sostaric, the Conco Companies, UCON President
I’m writing this article as one of my first acts since being elected as the new President of UCON. First, let me say to all that I am deeply honored and humbled to be given the opportunity to lead this great organization.
On February 9, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill (SB) 114 into law, which requires businesses with 26 or more employees to provide workers with up to 80 hours of COVID paid leave.
Today, President Biden signed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) into law. This historic bill provides $550 billion in new spending over five years for U.S. infrastructure upgrades.
