WASHINGTON — The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) announced its support of Rep. Marsha Blackburn’s (R-Tenn.) introduction of legislation on June 2 to allow entry-level “helpers” on federal construction projects that require employers to pay prevailing wages under the Davis-Bacon Act.

The Helpers Job Opportunity Act of 2003 (H.R. 1012) was co-sponsored by Rep. Charlie Norwood (R-Ga.) and Steve King (R-Iowa).

“Allowing helpers on federal construction projects gives semi-skilled workers, many of whom are trying to learn a trade and break into the construction industry, entry into the industry and helps small businesses to be competitive,” said ABC National Chairman Edward L. Rispone, a founder and chairman of the management board of Industrial Specialty Contractors in Baton Rouge, La. “Not allowing helpers on federal construction projects excludes entry-level workers from valuable job opportunities and forces small businesses to have skilled workers perform unskilled tasks.”