with elected officials. We have built key relationships throughout the state, but we need more, especially with all the new faces coming into office. We need these officials to understand that AGC of California members are their constituents, and they are the companies that literally build the communities they represent. Several AGC of California districts have long established strong political “grass roots” efforts, and we want to expand much of that model to other regions of California. Establishing stronger connec- tions with more elected leaders through- out the state is both a prerequisite and parallel effort that supports a strategy involving a stronger legislative offense. Te other side of the coin is how we plan to approach legislation in the coming years. In recent years when you discussed AGC of California’s legislative activities, you may have heard the phrase “proac- tive defense.” Tat means we have always kept our ear to the ground with a focus on identifying the next piece of harmful legislation coming around the corner; we prioritized strategies of how we can either stop, or blunt, the impact before it makes much headway. We operate in California’s political environment, and therefore this is still a primary focus of the organization. However, we also want to shift atten-


tion, with the objective of having AGC of California increase its role in “setting the table” on priorities that we as contractors feel need to be addressed by our gov- ernment. Challenges with supply chain, material price volatility, and complex regu- latory liability passed onto contractors are just a few of the items our members have expressed a desire for AGC of California to champion. AGC of California members will need to be directly involved if we are going to enjoy greater success.


California Constructor: Why is it import- ant from your perspective to get members


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CALIFORNIA CONSTRUCTOR NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2022


to engage in AGC of California’s legislative process at the grassroots level?


“The November mid-term, and the subsequent elections through 2024, are very significant in they present a major opportunity to start building new, more fruitful relationships. We need to capitalize on the eagerness of these new officials and build partnerships with them, so they can help us build solutions to the myriad of challenges facing California’s contractors.”


– Chris O’Connor


Chris O’Connor: Our members are why officials pay attention to AGC of Califor- nia. Officials ultimately care about who AGC of California represents within our membership, not the individuals hired by AGC of California to advocate on the member’s behalf. AGC of California’s brand is powerful and enduring, but in the eyes of an elected official, an influ- ential constituent’s voice can be just as powerful. Appealing to their voters is a fundamental need of all elected officials in order to maintain their position in office. Linking AGC of California mem- bers to the assemblymembers, senators, mayors, county supervisors, etc. who represent them is AGC of California’s most powerful resource when trying to sway an official’s position on issues that impact our industry.


California Constructor: What role will the November mid-term election have in how AGC of California moves forward with it 2023 legislative agenda?


Chris O’Connor: Te November mid- term, and the subsequent elections through 2024, are very significant in they present a major opportunity to start building new, more fruitful rela- tionships. By the time the 2024 election cycle concludes, we will see almost half of the California legislature change over, adding new legislators who could serve up to 12 years in office. New legislators often enter office with more of an open mind than their veteran counterparts, and they often seek opportunities to become a leader on specific issues, helping define a future legacy. We need to capitalize on the eagerness of these new officials and build partnerships with them, so they can help us build


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