Trent Cotney, PA, Cotney Construction Law
Being part of the roofing industry for the last 20 years, I have seen FRSA constantly fight for roofing contractors. The industry is besieged with challenges, including lack of skilled labor, insurance issues and government regulation. On March 7, 2018, FRSA and many of its members participated in NRCA’s Roofing Day in Washington, D.C. With at least 45 attendees, Florida had the most participation of any state and was recognized for its efforts.
What was Roofing Day? It was a chance for us as roofing professionals to make sure our collective voice is heard by Congress. The 400-plus attendees were able to speak with 87 percent of Congress and focus on three key industry issues. The Florida attendees spoke with the offices of Senators Rubio and Nelson as well as their respective Representatives.
Immigration was the first issue discussed and focused on reform that would assist the industry and maintain its professionalism. The position advocated for legal immigration but also asked Congress to implement a pathway to allow those working under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to adjust to legal permanent resident status. The biggest threat to roofing is lack of skilled labor, and we need an immigration system that allows roofing contractors to legally supplement their workforces to meet demand.
The next topic focused on workforce development. As many of you are aware, vocational and technical training has diminished and is desperately needed to make sure we have workers capable of performing skilled roofing work. FRSA supports the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (H.R. 2353), which expands opportunities for work-based learning programs, strengthens incentives for the development of industry-recognized credentials and provides new opportunities for collaboration between employers and educational institutions to meet local work force needs.
Finally, we advocated for regulatory reform. NRCA and FRSA support the Regulatory Accountability Act (S.951) which will require government agencies such as the Department of Labor (OSHA) to engage in stakeholder participation prior to the consideration of rule implementation. In addition, a cost-benefit analysis will be performed on all new regulations to minimize adverse economic impacts. By allowing the roofing industry’s voice to be heard in the process, less burdensome regulations will be implemented thereby helping our industry to grow and prosper while still keeping safety as a top priority.
For those of you that were unable to attend this year, we look forward to seeing you next year in D.C. Florida roofers need to make their voice heard in front of Congress and help them understand that we are a force to be reckoned with!
Author’s note: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not
constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual
pattern or situation. Regulations and laws may vary depending on your location. Consult with a licensed attorney in your area if you wish to obtain legal advice and/or counsel for a particular legal issue.
Trent Cotney is an advocate for the roofing industry, General Counsel of FRSA, NWIR, WCRCA and PBCRSMA, and a Florida Bar Board Certified Construction Lawyer. For more information, contact the author at 813-579-3278 or visit www.trentcotney.com.
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