Assemblyman Christopher Tague (R, C, I - Schoharie) is fighting back to protect New York’s ability to rebuild after the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, in the 2020-21 budget, prevailing wage requirements are being made applicable to construction projects performed under private contract. Tague is deeply concerned that this would significantly drive up construction costs and add massive delays to the ability of private construction companies.

“I worked in the heavy construction industry for nearly 30 years and I know the ins and outs of the business,” Tague said. “I’m sure we can all agree reconstruction efforts after COVID-19 are secondary only to fighting the virus itself. If prevailing wage is extended to private companies, we’re going to see a staggering increase in costs and job time. We simply can’t afford such a spike in light of the pandemic. It’s irresponsible to change so much during a time of crisis.”