THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, February 23, 1995 TAG: 9502220007
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A10 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 35 lines
Regarding ``Repeal the Davis-Bacon Act'' (Perspectives, Feb. 6):
I disagree with columnist George F. Will's thinking. In today's times we need the Davis-Bacon Act more than ever.
I belong to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and this union, as many other construction unions, tries to provide a decent wage for each member, regardless of race or sex. All members are highly qualified at their trade; most attend an apprenticeship program which includes on-the-job training and also night school, of which I am one of the instructors. Believe me, we are not the reason why costs are so high on a construction job. Materials, engineers, land costs - they all add up on the final cost of a job.
When Mr. Will quotes a Readers Digest article comparing pay rates, he neglects to note that the $38 wage includes pay in pocket, retirement, vacation and many other benefits as opposed to the $16 figure which includes none of the above.
I wonder how those who oppose the Davis-Bacon Act would feel if their pay or benefits were the ones in jeopardy? It is hard enough to make ends meet without taking a pay cut. All the average worker is looking for (union or non-union) is an ``honest day's pay for an honest day's work!''
MICHAEL IACOBELLIS, member
I.B.E.W. Local Union No. 80
Norfolk, Feb. 7, 1995 by CNB