In a newly released letter from the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), vice chair Sam Scaturro and executive director Helena Seelinger are emphasizing the need for corrosion prevention in the INVEST in America Act.
The complete text of the letter can be viewed below.
Dear AMPP Member and Fellow QP Contractor:
On July 1, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3684, the INVEST in America Act. The bill provides $715 billion for surface transportation programs, mass transit, passenger, and freight rail, drinking water and assistance programs, and wastewater infrastructure. Most importantly, the legislation includes provisions that directly impact the coatings and corrosion prevention industry.
The INVEST in America Act emphasizes the need for corrosion planning and qualified personnel on bridge construction, replacement, and maintenance programs. Specifically, the legislation requires the use of a certified contractor on federally funded projects, which means that contractors, who are certified to the appropriate QP, will have more opportunity to be awarded these projects. To date, QP is required in 34 states, and AMPP is working with the remaining states to make adoption of QP as straightforward as possible. Our goal is to work with all asset owners to foster engagement of audited contractors that are dedicated to quality and safety.
These requirements will protect taxpayer funding, increase safety, and ensure all projects are completed with the highest quality possible. Before these provisions become law, the Senate must act, and we need your help.
Lawmakers place the highest emphasis on the views of their constituents. We need your help to show how important these provisions are. We are asking that you edit this letter and send to your respective senators for support. If needed, we can help you customize the text and provide appropriate contact information. If you would like assistance, please contact AMPP government relations manager Adam Christopher at adam.christopher@ampp.org or by phone at (571) 243-1242.
Thanks for your time and support.
Source: AMPP, www.ampp.org.