From Roads to Results: VTCA PAC’s Summer of Strategic Engagement

Workforce Policy 
The Virginia Transportation Construction Alliance Political Action Committee (VTCA PAC) recently participated in both the House Republican and House Democratic Caucus Retreats to meet with legislative leaders on the key transportation and workforce issues that impact Virginia’s economy and infrastructure. 
 
At both events, VTCA engaged in meaningful discussions to emphasize the need for a long-term, sustainable transportation funding policy that addresses the Commonwealth’s evolving infrastructure needs. As Virginia continues to grow, it will take forward-thinking leadership to ensure reliable investments in roads, bridges, and transit systems. 

A Call to Action for long-term sustainable transportation funding 
One of the most productive conversations took place with Delegate Terry Austin, where VTCA discussed not only the urgent need for sustainable funding mechanisms but also voiced strong support for preserving Virginia’s Right-to-Work law – a foundational workforce policy that has contributed to the state’s strong business climate. 
 
Delegate Austin wants to meet with the VTCA Legislative Committee to help map out future funding needs.  His suggestion is to look at Virginia by region and connect with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership Authority and how transportation is a key factor in all economic development arenas.   

In addition to sustainable transportation policy, VTCA’s PAC is always expressing to every legislator the need to preserve Virginia’s Right to Work status. 

What is a “Right-to-Work” State? 
Virginia is a Right-to-Work state, meaning employees are not required to join a union or pay union dues as a condition of employment. This gives workers the freedom to choose and has helped Virginia remain economically competitive. VTCA supports this policy as essential to maintaining business flexibility and protecting worker choice across the construction industry. Currently 26 states have Right-to-Work laws.  Notably, Michigan recently repealed its right to work law in 2024. 

Conversations with Key Democratic Leaders 
VTCA also had the opportunity to hold several extended conversations with key Democratic leader  Delegate Karrie Delaney, who serves as a House Transportation Committee Chair, focused on key funding issues and priorities as well as work zone safety improvements, including support for photo speed enforcement, and the ongoing debate around the use of Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) in public construction. 
 
VTCA met with both Chairs of the Agricultural & Natural Resources Committees to discuss VTCA’s Aggregate Mining Economic Impact Study and the importance of keeping Aggregate Mines local.  We invited several legislators to tour mines, asphalt plants and job sites this summer. VTCA has nearly a dozen job site tours planned this summer with legislators and DEQ inspectors – many who have never been to a member’s job site before.  
 
In addition, VTCA met with Speaker Don Scott and will hold follow-up conversations on key issues this fall.  Delegate David Bulova, Chairman of the General Laws Committee addressed several procurement issues, including why PLA’s will cost VA more and get less in return. Delegate Luke Torian, Chairman of the Appropriations Committee, discussed transportation funding needs – with an emphasis on ensuring adequate investment in both roads and transit systems. Conversations with Delegate Mark Sickles, Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, further underscored the importance of identifying reliable revenue streams for transportation infrastructure in future state budgets. VTCA discussed the ongoing Capital Beltway Campaign and Virginia’s efforts to work with Maryland on ensuring traffic congestion is mitigated in a cost-efficient way. 

A Bit of Fun—and Friendly Competition 
While the retreats provided serious opportunities for policy discussions, there was also time for camaraderie. VTCA’s Vice President, Eddie Gupton of Rockydale, participated in a sporting clays event and hit 49 out of 50 clays – teaming up with Delegate David Bulova for a near-perfect showing. 

A Familiar Face Lends His Support 
Former State Senator Dick Saslaw, a longtime transportation champion, was also in attendance at the caucus retreat. Now retired, Saslaw continues to be actively involved in Virginia politics and is supporting moderate Democratic candidates who prioritize infrastructure investment and economic growth. 
 
Bipartisan Dialogue for a Stronger Virginia 
VTCA PAC’s involvement at both the Republican and Democratic retreats highlights the organization's commitment to bipartisan collaboration. Transportation is a shared concern, and VTCA continues to work across the aisle to ensure that Virginia’s infrastructure, workforce, and economic policies are aligned for long-term success. 

As we approach the 2026 General Assembly session, VTCA will continue building partnerships that advance safe, efficient, and well-funded transportation systems for all Virginians. 

VTCA’s PAC is involved in several key areas this summer: 

• House of Delegate Races 
• Preserving Virginia’s Right-To-Work Campaign 
• Improving the Capital Beltway Campaign 
• Opposing mandated PLA’s with localities 

VTCA’s PAC Needs You & Your support 
VTCA’s PAC supports candidates who understand the value of infrastructure investment, free enterprise, and fair competition. These are legislators who will fight to keep Virginia’s economy strong and our transportation network vibrant. But getting these candidates elected—or re-elected—takes resources. 
Our goal is to raise $200,000 by September 1, 2025. This fund will help us support candidates who stand with us and push back against those who want to tip the scales through mandates and favoritism. We’re asking every member firm to make a contribution to the PAC. 

If your company cannot make a corporate contribution to the PAC, please consider an individual contribution or a corporate donation to our Industry Advancement Fund and public awareness efforts through Virginians for Better Transportation: www.VBTVA.com. 

Make checks payable to: 
VTCA PAC for political contributions, or VTCA Industry Advancement Fund for outreach and education efforts.