Congress and the President are at a critical crossroads. Proposed changes to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)—particularly efforts to reduce or eliminate its tax credits—risk undermining one of the most promising areas of economic growth in the country: the expansion of construction and clean energy jobs.

This comes at a time when the economy continues to face headwinds—persistent inflation, supply chain challenges, and global uncertainty. Amid these difficulties, the construction industry has been a rare bright spot. Jobs in this sector are projected to grow by 4.7% from 2023 to 2033, outpacing the average growth rate across all industries. That momentum is directly tied to policies like the IRA, which have incentivized private investment in infrastructure and clean energy projects across the nation.

It’s important to set the record straight about what the IRA really is. This legislation is not a partisan tool—it’s a practical investment in America’s future. In fact, 60% of the IRA-related projects are located in Republican-held districts. The IRA encourages private investment through tax credits—a strategy long embraced by both parties—to spur economic development, innovation, and job creation.

In Wisconsin, the impact has been substantial. There are 82 clean energy projects currently in the pipeline, expected to create thousands of jobs. These are high-quality, family-supporting jobs that allow workers to build their futures and reinvest in their local communities. Thanks to the demand driven by the IRA, some union apprenticeship programs in Wisconsin have doubled in size, while others have surpassed key milestones such as enrolling over 1,000 apprentices for the first time. These apprentices represent the next generation of skilled labor, the backbone of our local economy.

Importantly, support for the IRA and its outcomes isn’t limited to one side of the political aisle. Many of our contractor members and union tradespeople are Republicans who see firsthand the benefits these investments bring to their companies, workers, and communities. This is not about partisan politics—it’s about supporting policies that deliver real economic value.

Since the IRA became law, over $5.3 billion in private investment has been announced in Wisconsin alone, with $2.9 billion already spent. So far, more than 4,000 construction jobs have been tied to completed IRA-related projects, with thousands more expected as new projects break ground.

Congressional proposals to cut back or eliminate these incentives would put all of that progress at risk. Job losses, stalled projects, and reduced economic stability could follow, affecting workers, contractors, and entire communities across Wisconsin and beyond.

The Budget Reconciliation bill is moving quickly—but there’s still time for lawmakers to reconsider. We urge Congress to listen to those on the ground—the workers, contractors, and business owners—and preserve the IRA’s job-creating provisions. The decisions made today will shape how this Congress is remembered—not just in the headlines, but in the lives of workers and families across America.