On January 17, 2012, the Connecticut Supreme Court ruled in agreement with IEC New England member Electrical Contractors Inc. (ECI) stating they have the right to challenge the project labor agreements (PLA) of two area public schools. ECI now has standing to sue the City of Hartford for the use of PLAs.
“We were excited for the result of the ruling and the impact for the merit shop industry moving forward,” said Jim Nasuta of ECI. “It’s been a long and stressful fight but we feel we are close to the end. While the case is ECI vs. the city of Hartford, this outcome is much bigger than just us. This result could have a potential impact around the country.”
The case began when ECI successfully bid on two construction projects for schools in Hartford, Connecticut. The company was then asked to sign a PLA, which they refused stating that they would use their own workers and should not be forced to use union labor. Read More
The case now moves back to the local courts with ECI having the grounds to sue the City of Hartford. “The next step is to go back and try to win this case in the local court system,” Nasuta continued. “This has been a financial strain on our company. The case needs to be finished and if there was ever a time when we need support, it is right now!”
IEC National Government Affairs Chairman Joseph Hovanec said "This case can set a national precedent for PLAs on public projects. Project Labor Agreements PLAs are an issue that effects every Merit Shop Electrical contractor in the country. As you can imagine their fight has had a heavy financial toll on ECI's business, but they are determined to see this through for the good of the Merit Shop Industry. I highly encourage anyone that has been effected or may be effected by a PLA to do what you can to help Jim and ECI with their fight.
If you would like to offer support in this case, please contact Jim Nasuta at (860) 549-2822.
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