Scott McCoy, Business Manager
Winning Passage of the Build Back Better Act
Relief for middle class families is one step closer with the passage by the House of Representatives of the Build Back Better Act on Nov. 19.
Like the infrastructure bill, the Build Back Better Act will make transformative investments in future generations, the health care system and public schools.
“For generations, IBEW members have joined our working sisters and brothers across the economy in calling for the kind of basic protections and services found in the Build Back Better Act,” President Stephenson said. “This historic legislation will improve quality of life for millions, and today, IBEW members are celebrating its passage by the U.S. House of Representatives.”
The nearly $2 trillion bill also includes $555 billion for clean energy tax credits and climate funding, expanded Affordable Care Act tax credits, and caps on childcare and out-of-pocket prescription drug costs. In addition, the bill sets aside $20 billion for workforce development activities, including $6 billion in funding to expand apprenticeship programs over the next five years.
President Stephenson said the IBEW looks forward to working with lawmakers in the Senate to enhance the legislation by including provisions to retain jobs for existing workers in communities that depend on the energy industry for economic survival.
“Restoring the middle class has always been at the heart of President Biden’s ambitious plan to Build Back Better, and the IBEW is proud to stand with President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Congress in fighting for the union workers who built the middle class and who continue to power our nation,” Stephenson said.
The Build Back Better Act, recognized by the term “budget reconciliation,” now heads to the Senate, where it is likely to evolve. If it changes, the House will have to vote on it again before it can be signed by President Biden. IBEW Government Affairs staff is monitoring its progress.