WA Cares payroll tax on hold The Governor and Democratic leaders announced a delay last Friday in the new WA Cares payroll tax on employees. Their hope is
that, during the 2022 session that starts on Jan 10, the Legislature will address some of the issues that have been brought to light with the program. A handful of bills have already been introduced for the 2022 session regarding this program, and we expect more. AGC is opposed to this program as a mandate, and we will continue to work to get it repealed or expand opt-out opportunities. If you have any questions, contact Michele Willms.
Sen. Doug Ericksen passes State Senator Doug Ericksen died last Friday. Senator Ericksen represented the 42nd legislative district (Whatcom County) since 1998. AGC’s BUILD PAC has long supported Sen. Ericksen, who had an 88%
lifetime vote score for AGC. Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig said in a statement, “While we often disagreed on policy, I respected his long service to his community.” House Minority Leader J.T. Wilcox added, “Sen. Doug Ericksen never gave up. He served for many years and was known for his adept understanding of politics.” AGC of Washington sends our condolences to Sen. Ericksen’s family.
Wealth tax, head tax or income tax? The Tax Structure Work Group (TSWG) is a bipartisan group of legislators and other public officials are looking at ways
to alter our state’s tax structure. This workgroup wants to hear from residents and business owners regarding the current state tax structure and feedback on some of the ideas they are discussing. Click here to access the TSWG survey provide them feedback on our state’s tax structure and the ideas that are being discussed. The TSWG will take the feedback received from the Townhall meetings they held earlier, and from the surveys, to create legislation that will be introduced in 2023 to change our state’s tax structure. AGC is monitoring the work of the TSWG and is concerned about some of the options they are discussing so therefore the TSWG needs to hear from businesses and people like you... Read more.
See you in Seattle for the 2022 Annual Celebration Join us, AGCW members -- yes, live and in-person! -- on January 28 at the Seattle Four Seasons as we together share our stories and celebrate our successes. The 2022 celebration will include an expanded cocktail party, dinner and the Ashbaugh Beal After-Party. The Four Seasons' block-room discount rate has also been extended to Jan. 4. Call their reservations department at 206.749.7000 and let them know that you’re booking under the Associated General Contractors room-block rate. Click here to get all the event details. GREAT SPONSORSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE, TOO -- click herefor more info, or contact membership director Stacy Mullane.
New economic-impact cards now available AGC has just published the information from the University of Washington’s study of the economic impact of the construction Industry on the state of
Washington. The number of people employed by the construction industry dropped in 2020 by 5.7% compared to 2019. In 2020, the construction industry’s payroll was $19.4 billion which was an increase by 1% from 2019. For each dollar invested in new construction, the state’s economy generates an additional $2.09 in economic activity. That is an increase of 12 cents in 2020. We share this information with elected officials and candidates let them know the importance of the construction industry has on Washington economy and communities which construction is taking place. If you would like to receive a laminated pocket-size copy of the card, contact Michele Willms, or you can click here to
view/download the page-size version.
Board approves 2022 legislative-policy statements The AGC of Washington Board has adopted the 2022 Legislative Policy statements (click here to view/download). AGC will continue to push for transportation funding, supporting a transfer of general-fund dollars
to help fund transportation, which can be done by transferring car-sales tax, sales tax from construction, and the funds 2021 carbon pricing legislation. AGC will continue to push back on proposals that unreasonably increase taxes, business costs, or regulations. Workforce development remains a high priority for the AGC.
CHRISTMAS EVE PUNCHLIST
It's (almost!) an AGC holiday tradition. Enjoy, and Merry Christmas to all
from AGC. (Downloadable PDF available at bit.ly/Christmas-Eve-Punchlist)
'Twas the night before Christmas and, all ‘round the site,
The whole crew was hustling to finish that night.
The last door was hung in the building with care...Read more.
Holiday savings for AGC members on quality brands It’s that time of year again -- time to start thinking about giving great gifts. AGC members can save 20% on holiday gifts with NPP discounts from quality brands that deliver, like 1-800-Flowers.com, Harry & David, Simply Chocolate, Cheryl’s Cookies and many more. Click here to visit AGC of Washington's NPP page and get all the details -- and happy holidays!
The AGC Education Foundation continues to offer virtual continuing-education classes in a live, interactive, remote environment. We are
working closely with instructors to maintain high-quality training programs and are finding great success in the virtual environment.
FINAL DAYS! RENEW BY DEC. 24 TO SAVE ON AGC MEMBERSHIP Yes, there's still time to save 2% on your 2022 AGC membership and make it an even better value. Don't delay -- click hereto renew today.
Get the latest COVID-19 resources and information for the construction industry at the AGCW Contractor Resources page.
AGC's Construction Leadership Council develops the next generation of construction leaders through education, philanthropy and social efforts to ensure the future success of our industry.
