SMCA closely monitors events and issues affecting our members' businesses. Check here regularly for updates on technical, safety, and legislative happenings!
A new New Jersey law now formally regulates fire and smoke damper inspections and smoke control system testing, establishing required inspection intervals and certification standards for contractors performing this work in the state. The legislation, P.L. 2023, c.186, known as the Fire Life... Continue Reading
As we begin 2026, both SMACNA National and SMACNA PA are signaling an active year across the legislative and regulatory landscape. With national elections ahead, ongoing workforce pressures, and continued attention to permitting and procurement, several developments have direct implications for... Continue Reading
Our final Legislative Update of the year brings a high-level view of the policy landscape shaping construction in Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and Washington. With the state budget finally resolved, major debates over energy reliability and data center regulation unfolding, and the City of... Continue Reading
The November elections in Pennsylvania and New Jersey brought continuity at the top and a few notable shifts below the surface—changes that could shape how contractors plan for the next few years. In New Jersey, voters elected Mikie Sherrill (D) as governor and strengthened Democratic... Continue Reading
As contractors who rely on union labor and value stability in the construction marketplace, it’s worth paying attention to what’s happening on November 4. While national headlines may be quiet, both Pennsylvania and New Jersey have key decisions ahead that will shape the business and... Continue Reading
SMACNA and SMART released a joint statement detailing how union sheet metal contractors and craftworkers support nuclear power—from containment-grade HVAC to nuclear-specific welding—backed by rigorous certifications and site-specific training. Why this matters nowLife-extension,... Continue Reading
We’ve pulled the latest from primary sources and trusted industry summaries to keep you and your teams current on what matters in Philadelphia City Hall, Harrisburg, and Washington, D.C. It’s concise by design: quick headlines, why it matters for contractors, and what to do next.... Continue Reading
This week marks the start of Construction Suicide Prevention Week, an annual initiative that shines a light on one of the most pressing challenges facing our industry. Construction has one of the highest suicide rates of any profession. Long hours, physically demanding work, seasonal... Continue Reading
The Sheet Metal Workers Local 19 Joint Apprenticeship Training Fund (JATF) has received official certification from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for its Pre-Apprenticeship program. This marks a major milestone for workforce development in Philadelphia, providing a structured, paid program that... Continue Reading
July 14, 2025 The U.S. Department of Labor announced major updates to OSHA enforcement guidelines aimed at easing the burden on small contractors while still prioritizing workplace safety. What Changed? Expanded small-business relief: Penalty reductions previously limited to firms with... Continue Reading
