The federal lawsuits against Plymouth Township and Colonial School District over their adoption of a “Responsible Contractor” ordinance and policy have been closed as of April 25th. Note that these two lawsuits were combined with similar suits against West Norriton Township and Northampton County, which adopted similar ordinances.
The lawsuits were heard in United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania by Judge Edward G. Smith.
If you have not been following this issue, supporters of a “Responsible Contractors” ordinance or policy argue that it provides for construction projects to be done by the most skilled workers in the safest conditions. Opponents argue that through mechanisms within the ordinance or policy, such as a requirement for contractors to participate in a specific type of apprentice program, the opportunity to bid on construction projects is limited to union shops.
We are in the process of reaching out to the parties involved. You can read the court orders and the opinion below:
More to come.