Introducing Jim Thompson: ABMA’s new lobbyist brings over two decades of political experience to our team. Learn more about Jim here.
The start of a new Congress is always electrifying, and this year is no exception. With the slim Republican majority in the House, the 119th Congress began on a high stakes note. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) was elected after three votes, solidifying his position in his first full term. Johnson took the gavel last October after the dramatic ousting of Speaker McCarthy (R-CA), and all eyes are on how he’ll steer a closely divided chamber through critical legislative battles.
On January 6, the Presidential election was certified with minimal controversy, a marked contrast to recent cycles. Vice President Kamala Harris (D-CA) presided over the process, much like former Vice President Al Gore (D-TN) did in 2001 after his own hard-fought election loss. It was a reminder that the wheels of democracy, though occasionally bumpy, continue to turn.
Looking ahead, the Trump Administration’s transition team is hitting the ground running. Top priorities include reducing regulations and rolling back environmental directives tied to energy production. One notable appointment is Lee Zeldin as the new EPA Administrator. Hailing from Eastern Long Island, Zeldin’s background dealing with regional water issues positions him to tackle natural resource challenges head-on. His Senate confirmation hearings are set to begin next week, with industry stakeholders closely watching his potential impact on federal land use and vehicle regulations.
Meanwhile, in Congress, Energy & Commerce Chairman Brett Guthrie (R-KY) has added a new name to the roster: Congressman Nick Langworthy (R-NY). Langworthy, a rising star, was the only freshman majority member on the influential Rules Committee last term. His elevation underscores the importance of New York representation on key issues, especially with ABMA’s focus on balancing environmental stewardship with economic growth.
The incoming Trump Administration has wasted no time outlining its priorities, emphasizing a rollback of regulations and red tape in industries like energy production, transportation, and labor. This approach aligns closely with many of ABMA’s advocacy goals, including reforming crane certification, CDL licensing, and salaried overtime rules. These issues are vital to addressing workforce development challenges in the lumber and building materials (LBM) industry, which faces an aging workforce and increasing barriers to entry for new employees.
Employer-led training programs, tailored to industry needs, have proven effective in bridging workforce gaps. However, current regulatory frameworks make these programs difficult to implement. For example, CDL licensing costs have surged under federal guidelines, creating a significant barrier for young workers. Similarly, crane certification requirements are designed for large-scale construction projects, leaving smaller, industry-specific operations like boom trucks out in the cold. These are the kinds of obstacles ABMA is working to overcome, ensuring our members can build and maintain a skilled, competitive workforce.
Mark Your Calendars for ABMA Advocacy Day 2025
As federal priorities shift, there’s no better time to make your voice heard in Washington. ABMA’s annual Advocacy Day is just around the corner, taking place Monday, April 7, and Tuesday, April 8, 2025. These visits to Capitol Hill are more than photo ops—they’re vital opportunities to build relationships with lawmakers and their staff. Your stories as local taxpayers, employers, and community leaders resonate deeply and often lead to lasting partnerships.
