SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Governor Maura Healey signed a significant executive order on Tuesday during the 106th annual convention of the Massachusetts Building Trades Unions (MBTU) at MGM Springfield. The order promotes the use of project labor agreements (PLAs) for large public works projects, aiming to bolster the state’s construction industry, protect local jobs, and ensure timely, on-budget project completion.

PLAs, collective bargaining agreements between contractors and labor organizations, outline employment terms for all contractors, subcontractors, and craft labor employees working on a specific project. They are designed to ensure high-quality jobs for a diverse workforce, maintain competitive costs, and keep projects on track with deadlines.

The MBTU, a 106-year-old organization, represents over 75,000 union construction workers in Massachusetts, helping them secure family-sustaining wages, comprehensive healthcare, and pension benefits. Governor Healey’s executive order aligns with the Massachusetts Leads economic development bill passed in 2024.

“There are so many critical construction projects underway all across the state – upgrading our roads and bridges, improving infrastructure for small businesses and more,” Governor Healey said. “We know that it’s really important that these projects are set up for success. This means ensuring that contractors have a trained and ready workforce to turn to and a plan for meeting deadlines, staying within budget, and keeping everyone safe. In many cases, PLAs can help make that happen, while promoting good job opportunities for workers of all backgrounds, including veterans, women, and minorities.”

Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll also highlighted the proven success of PLAs in both the public and private sectors, citing projects like the Holyoke Veterans Home, Gillette Stadium, and TD Garden. “We’re proud to take this action today that will make sure our agencies are paying close attention to ways in which they can maximize the success of their projects while supporting our incredible, diverse workforce in Massachusetts,” she said.

Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones emphasized that the executive order would support the Massachusetts construction workforce. “Governor Healey’s Executive Order signals the use of PLAs for complex, large public construction projects when in the best interest of the Commonwealth—a workforce strategy that will generate good wages and benefits for Massachusetts’ construction industry and workers,” Jones said. She also noted that the administration is committed to diversifying the workforce by increasing apprenticeships and attracting more women and people of color into the field.

The MBTU’s annual convention also included discussions on expanding workforce development opportunities and ensuring a fair, safe, and equitable work environment for Massachusetts’ construction labor force.

Key Highlights

Project Labor Agreements (PLAs)

‍These agreements help ensure timely, budget-friendly completion of public works projects while providing fair labor conditions.

Diversity and Workforce Development

‍The Healey administration is focusing on diversifying the workforce by promoting initiatives for women, minorities, and veterans in construction.

Economic Impact

‍The new order builds on the 2024 Massachusetts Leads economic development bill, which supports both infrastructure improvement and workforce growth.

Governor Healey’s order marks a strong commitment to the future of Massachusetts' construction industry, aligning strategic labor agreements with the state’s goal to maintain a robust, skilled workforce.

Originally reported by Emma McCorkindale in WWLP.