Here at DCA, monitoring government proposals is a core function.  As the General Assembly continues to meet, more bills are being filed that could potentially impact the construction industry. DCA’s Government Relations committee meets monthly to review and discuss current legislation and policy. We also work to connect DCA members with their legislators. DCA just had a successful event on March 18th where 15 members went to Dover to meet their legislators and tour the State House (shout out to our Tour Guide Peggy).  We also had 25 DCA members (from the Young Executives Committee (YEC) and several “slightly” over 40 years old) meet with County and State legislators and the New Castle County Executive for breakfast in our boardroom on March 26th.

Today I want to share part 2 of an interview with DCA’s lobbyist, Quinn Johnson. I encourage you to get to know him and utilize him and DCA to keep your business informed. Here is part 2 of the interview:

Value of Government Affairs

Why is it important for DCA to have a dedicated government affairs specialist?

A dedicated Government Affairs specialist focuses solely on government issues. Too much is at stake to expect an Executive Director to handle the role of the organization as well as Government Affairs.

How does this role benefit contractors and the construction industry as a whole?

Relationships are vital. We want to be at the table when legislators are crafting legislation and or regulations. We want DCA to be the trusted source of information and to be heard when the organization’s position on a matter is shared.

How do you stay informed about pending legislation or regulatory changes that could affect DCA members?

Weekly I review the newly introduced legislation. The executive director will monitor proposed regulations. Together we share which items will impact DCA members. What steps do you take to address potential concerns? After sharing the potential issues with DCA, then we take the final position the membership takes on an issue and shares it with the sponsors and or administration. At that time, we work with the sponsors to make changes that are satisfactory to DCA and its members.

What advice would you give to DCA members who want to get more involved in advocacy or better understand the legislative process?

The most success I have seen with other organizations has been if their members are involved. First you must know and communicate with your own elected officials. When there is a request for mobilization, all members must answer the call and then reach out to their own officials and share their position. Most legislators make decisions based on the voice they have heard in their districts. If they do not hear from you then they assume nothing is wrong with what a bill is trying to do. As a vocal team we will be more successful in advocating DCA issues than trying to do it with one or two people. I also always encourage people to run for office. It is challenging, but if we do not have good people step up to the plate and serve, then bad decisions are made.

Looking Ahead

What are some of the key legislative or regulatory issues you’re currently tracking that could impact the construction industry in the coming year?

Paid Family Leave is starting and will have issues that need to be addressed. As a team, we are having meetings and advising the potential sponsor of any new legislation that we wish to be at the table when crafting a new bill. We are also monitoring any wage policies, like another increase to minimum wage. Federal funds do come to the State for road and capital projects. We are monitoring any impacts the new Federal administration has on funds that normally would come to Delaware.

What value do you hope to bring to the construction industry through DCA?

I intend to be the "boots on the ground" person in legislative hall, disseminating reliable information and sharing DCA's position on issues. I also will be a help in mobilizing DCA as a team effort and supporting and educating any member that wishes to be more involved in the process. It is understood that many may feel the government does not listen. Never forget that the power of the legislature comes from the people and comes from those that are involved. If you are not involved, you are not heard.

Just for fun

Do you have a hidden talent or special ability? 

I enjoy boating. I have been doing it all my life. I have Coast Guard Captain credentials for 50-ton vessels and below. I have Captained a boat from the Chesapeake Bay down to Key West Florida utilizing the Atlantic and ICW.