KCA calls for workforce development, infrastructure investment, and modernization of Separations Act

The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) has issued a call for workforce development, infrastructure investment, and modernization of the Separations Act in Governor Shapiro’s State Budget Address.

Representing commercial construction contractors across Pennsylvania, KCA is calling on the Shapiro Administration and General Assembly to advance policies and investments that strengthen construction industry, protect taxpayers, and ensure the commonwealth can deliver public infrastructure projects. KCA is urging state leaders to focus on strategic infrastructure funding, workforce development, regulatory efficiency, and modernization of the Separations Act, a 1913 law that mandates multiple prime contracts on public projects.

“Pennsylvania’s construction industry is ready to build – but outdated laws and workforce shortages are making it harder and more expensive to deliver public projects,” KCA Executive Director Jon O’Brien said in a statement. “Governor Shapiro’s budget presents an opportunity to modernize policy, improve efficiency, and ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.”

KCA’s budget priorities include the following:

• Infrastructure & Capital Investment: KCA supports sustained and predictable funding for public works, transportation, and economic development projects. Strategic capital investment drives job creation, strengthens local economies, and ensures Pennsylvania remains competitive with neighboring states, KCA stated.
• Workforce Development: The KCA urges increased funding for proven and registered apprenticeship programs, career and technical education, and industry-recognized and supported training initiatives. Addressing skilled labor shortages is critical to meeting project demand and creating long-term career pathways for Pennsylvanians. KCA said workforce programs need to be accountable and monitored.
• Modernizing the Separations Act: KCA supports modernizing the Separations Act. KCA said the current structure leads to inefficiencies, delays, higher costs, and increased risk for taxpayers and project owners. Modernizing the Separations Act would improve coordination and accountability on public construction projects, KCA stated.
• Permitting & Regulatory Efficiency: KCA encourages budget investments that improve agency staffing and technology to streamline permitting and approvals. Faster, more predictable permitting reduces costs, accelerates project delivery, and supports economic growth without sacrificing safety or environmental standards. KCA said that as demand for data centers accelerates nationwide, Pennsylvania needs to prepare by not only being site-wide but improving permitting and regulatory processes.

KCA was founded in 1940 and is based in Mechanicsburg in Cumberland County.