Building trades back, and ABC opposes, construction exemption from proposed new apprenticeship program.

If the Senate confirms President Trump’s pick to lead the Dept. of Labor, attorney Eugene Scalia, he would face key construction-related issues.

The federal government has raised the limit on visas for temporary or seasonal workers in nonagricultural industries by as many as 15,000, or 23%, but employers seeking them must state, under penalty of perjury, that their businesses are “likely to suffer irreparable harm” without the new workers.

Action revokes regulation that required potential contractors to disclose violations of labor and safety laws.

Lawmakers quizzed Labor Dept. nominee about issues including overtime and silica rules.