News Archive

Share Your Chapter Updates and Event Invitations

May 22, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

Please continue sending chapter news, project updates, advocacy efforts, workforce initiatives, and member success stories for inclusion in future editions of the SMACNA State & Local Newsletter.

Apprenticeship Programs Remain Central to Workforce Policy Discussions

May 22, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

Discussions have focused on funding priorities, industry partnerships, and strategies to expand access to skilled trades careers while meeting the growing demand for infrastructure and construction.

Royals Stadium Discussions Shape Kansas City Development Debate

May 22, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

The project is part of a broader regional conversation around economic development, infrastructure investment, transportation access, and mixed-use redevelopment opportunities.

Battery Storage Expansion Faces Local Pushback in California

May 22, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

Concerns surrounding fire safety, permitting, environmental impacts, and project siting are creating new challenges for developers and policymakers as demand for battery storage infrastructure grows.

Illinois Megaproject Legislation Advances as Bears Seek Changes

May 22, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

Proposal could impact several large-scale projects, including ongoing discussions involving a new Chicago Bears stadium development.

Lobbying 101 Resource Available for Chapters and Members

May 22, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

The resource provides practical guidance for members engaging with elected officials and policymakers, including tips on relationship building, effective communication, and issue advocacy.

Data Center Growth Drives Construction Demand

May 22, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

The report released earlier this month highlighted growing investment in large-scale data center facilities, many of which require highly specialized HVAC systems, energy management strategies, and advanced building performance solutions.

New Infrastructure Report Highlights Growing Local Challenges

May 22, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

A new report outlines significant infrastructure concerns facing municipalities nationwide, including aging facilities, transportation systems, water infrastructure, and public buildings.

SMACNA Leadership Conference Highlights Advocacy Priorities

May 22, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

SMACNA members from across the country gathered in Washington, DC, and met directly with Members of Congress and their staff to discuss key issues affecting the sheet metal and HVAC industries.

FY27 Budget Proposal Raises Concerns for Local Governments

Apr 29, 2026 |2 min read — State Legislative

Proposal calls for reductions in non-defense discretionary spending, alongside increased investment in defense and select new initiatives — a shift that could have direct implications for state and local governments.

Reserve Your Chapter Tables for the 2026 SMACNA Annual Convention

Apr 29, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

Getting a table represents a great opportunity to bring your chapter together and enhance your Convention experience!

Pennsylvania State Rep. Brian Munroe Visits SMCA of Philadelphia Member Prime Sheet Metal

Apr 29, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

Members highlighted the essential role SMCA contractors play in creating family-sustaining jobs, providing strong benefits, and supporting local communities.

Construction Legal Trends Continue to Evolve

Mar 26, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

Contractors are facing increased scrutiny and evolving expectations across jurisdictions, making it essential to stay informed and proactive.

Buffalo Bills Stadium Project Draws National Attention

Mar 26, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

The project — one of the largest public-private stadium investments in the country — underscores the significant role of skilled construction labor in delivering complex, high-profile infrastructure.

Florida Advances New Union Election Requirements

Mar 26, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

Legislation builds on earlier efforts to reshape public-sector labor policy in the state and reflects a broader national trend of reevaluating union governance, participation thresholds, and accountability.

Support Our Industry. Join SMACPAC Today

Feb 25, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

Your membership strengthens SMACNA’s voice in Washington and in state capitols across the country.

Illinois Advances Statewide Zoning Reform

Feb 25, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

Governor J.B. Pritzker has proposed new statewide zoning standards to expand the housing supply.

States Lead Legal Challenge to DOE Clean Energy Funding Cuts

Feb 25, 2026 |2 min read — State Legislative

13 state attorneys general challenged the termination of nearly $8 billion in federal clean energy and infrastructure funding previously authorized under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

Partners in Progress: Advancing Registered Apprenticeships at the State and Local Level

Feb 25, 2026 |2 min read — State Legislative

SMART and SMACNA recently collaborated on a joint session on this topic at the recent conference in Orlando.

SMART Begins Rolling Out Regional Director Positions

Jan 12, 2026 |1 min read — State Legislative

SMART has announced the rollout of new Regional Director positions across the country to strengthen coordination and engagement at the regional level.