Construction leaders oppose Maui bill 54 favoring union labor mandates

A heated debate erupted at the Maui County Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee meeting on April 25, 2025, as local contractors voiced strong opposition to Bill 54, which they argue could undermine their businesses and inflate project costs.

Jenny Sullivan, an employee of P.B. Sullivan Construction, delivered a passionate testimony against the bill, claiming it would transfer control of county capital improvement projects over $500,000 to unions, effectively sidelining experienced local contractors. "This bill is not about fairness or getting homes built faster; it's about control," Sullivan stated, emphasizing that the bill mandates a community workforce agreement that would require contractors to sign union agreements, limiting competition and driving up costs.

Sullivan highlighted that the bill's provisions would divert significant funds from workers' paychecks to union pensions and healthcare, which many employees may not benefit from unless they remain in the union for five years. She argued that this would force long-time employees to abandon their current healthcare and retirement plans, creating unnecessary hardship.

The discussion also touched on the existing Davis-Bacon laws, which already ensure prevailing wages and local hire requirements for public projects. Sullivan contended that the community workforce agreement proposed in Bill 54 is redundant and primarily benefits unions, rather than the local workforce.

Council members engaged in a dialogue about the bill's intent, with some expressing concerns over its ambiguity and potential implications for local labor. Member Paulton acknowledged the need for clarity, suggesting that the bill could be improved to include all labor sectors, both union and non-union.

The meeting underscored the urgency of addressing local workforce needs, particularly in light of upcoming federal funding for recovery efforts in Lahaina. As the committee continues to deliberate on Bill 54, local contractors remain adamant that any legislation must prioritize open competition and support for all local workers to ensure the community's swift recovery and development.