Federal Transportation Bill Omits Scaffold Law Language, Reform Efforts Persist
Efforts to reform New York’s Scaffold Law reached an important milestone this week with the release of the Federal Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill. While the base bill did not include the scaffold law reform language contained in the Infrastructure Expansion Act of 2025, as supporters had hoped, the development nevertheless provides greater clarity on the alternative legislative pathways available to the bill’s sponsor, Rep. Nick Langworthy.
Big I New York has worked alongside its members, industry partners, and congressional allies to advance federal scaffold law preemption language as part of the broader transportation reauthorization effort. The proposal seeks to address the rising costs and legal exposure associated with New York’s unique absolute liability standard, which continues to drive up construction, infrastructure, and insurance costs across both public and private projects.
From the outset, it was widely understood that attaching this language to a major federal legislative package would be difficult. Significant opposition was expected, and supporters approached the effort knowing it would require sustained advocacy and multiple legislative avenues to ultimately succeed.
While the language was not included in the current transportation package, this outcome does not alter the broader strategy. Several alternative approaches have already been identified, and discussions are actively continuing with policymakers and stakeholders on the path forward.
Big I New York remains committed to advancing practical reforms that protect workers while bringing greater fairness, predictability, and cost control to construction and infrastructure projects.
You can help build support for this effort by sending your Congressmember a pre-drafted note urging their support of H.R. 3548. Visit the Big I New York Grassroots Action Center today!
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