Pioneer Institute Endorses Fair & Open Competition in Construction, Not PLAs

The respected think tank, Pioneer Institute, has long been a champion of the free markets. An independent thinker, Pioneer has looked at the impacts of project labor agreements and reached the same conclusion as other unbiased observers.

"In lieu of bidding with PLAs, stick with the proven system that levels the playing field for all DCAMM-certified contractors under Massachusetts competitive bidding laws. This gives your project the widest access to qualified union and nonunion contractors, skilled workers, strong safety records, and the best value for taxpayers," Pioneer states in a recently published briefing paper for public building committees. (The analysis and advice is equally applicable to private construction.)

The Pioneer Institute's "Building Your Best Public Project" discusses the benefits of fair and open competition, and the detrimental impacts of project labor agreements. It is available for dowload and sharing.

"Public construction projects are among a community’s most important—and often expensive—undertakings," Pioneer states. "Fortunately, Massachusetts has a strong network of qualified contractors and robust state and federal laws and regulations. These laws promote quality, safety, prevailing wages, and fair and open competitive bidding. All of this enables communities to deliver high-quality construction projects on time and for the best price. This document highlights some key items already in place to achieve the greatest value on your next construction project."