Washington, D.C. (February 28, 2023) – Terry O’Sullivan, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – made the following
statement today:

The CHIPS and Science Act (CHIPS) is a groundbreaking investment in our nation’s future and competitiveness. Today’s announcement further advances our nation’s progress towards reclaiming our dominance in technology and manufacturing. The CHIPS program will spur a historic investment of both federal and private dollars, which will in turn create hundreds of thousands of family-supporting union construction jobs.

LIUNA is grateful to President Joe Biden and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo for their leadership and commitment to ensuring that these investments create good jobs with strong labor standards.

A large pool of skilled and diverse workers will be critical to strengthening the U.S. semiconductor ecosystem. Today's notice of funding will require applicants seeking a CHIPS subsidy to submit a construction workforce plan and strongly encourage the use of project labor agreements. Applicants will also be required to consult, engage, and coordinate with workforce partners - including labor unions - with an eye toward expanding access to a diverse pool of skilled apprentices. Employers will additionally be encouraged to create plans for wraparound services, such as childcare, transportation assistance, or housing assistance, to help develop a diverse and inclusive workforce. 

The investment in domestic manufacturing facilities built with skilled union tradesmen and women will benefit working men and women and strengthen our economy for years to come. We look forward to working with the Administration in the continued rollout.

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The half-million members of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – are on the forefront of the construction industry, a powerhouse of workers who are proud to build the United States and Canada.