For Immediate Release: November 6, 2026
IBEW International President Kenneth W. Cooper issued the following statement in support of the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act:
“The IBEW strongly supports the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act (BAAJA) and commends Chairs Lee and Capito and Ranking Members Heinrich and Whitehouse for their work on permitting reform that will unlock development across the energy industry.
“As the world’s largest energy union, I’m encouraged that the bill benefits our members that build, operate, and maintain the electric grid and the energy that powers it.
“For years, the IBEW has been clear that reforming federal permitting, particularly the acceleration of transmission line construction and new energy generation, is essential to meeting the nation’s infrastructure, energy, and affordability goals. When projects are stalled for years or are suspended even after they have been permitted, the delays mean lost work for IBEW members and higher costs for families. BAAJA is an important step in addressing these longstanding challenges.
“We strongly encourage the 119th Congress to pass this legislation and deliver affordable energy for working families everywhere while keeping the livelihoods of workers at the forefront.”
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The IBEW represents more than 925,000 members and retirees who work in a wide variety of fields, including construction, utilities, manufacturing, telecommunications, broadcasting, railroads and government.