WHAT THE “BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL” MEANS FOR YOU

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

There has been a lot of talk about the so called “Big Beautiful Bill” making its way through Washington. While the title might sound promising, the reality is that this legislation poses serious threats to our members, our families, and our union’s future. Let us break down what is really in it and what it means to you.

Deep Cuts to Medicare & Medicaid = Higher Costs for Our Health Plans
This bill guts Medicare and Medicaid and when public health programs get slashed, hospitals and providers shift the cost burden to private plans like ours. That means higher premiums, higher co-pays, and increases in your hourly health contribution, both now and into retirement. These cuts put the long-term afford-ability of our high-quality health-care benefits at serious risk.

Major Setbacks for Energy & Infrastructure Jobs
The bill eliminates renewable energy tax credits and slashes funding for public power and grid upgrades. That translates to fewer union jobs in solar, wind, EV infrastructure, and long-term public projects. It is a direct hit to our future work opportunities.

“No Tax on Overtime” — Not What It Seems
Despite the headline, the OT tax break is limited. It only applies to federal income tax, not state taxes, Social Security, or Medicare. There are income caps and a maximum deduction of $12,500 or $25,000, depending on filing status. Also, it is not reflected in your paycheck it shows up at tax time and expires in 2028. For many of our members, it is a talking point with an insignificant impact.

Attacks on Union Labor Standards
This bill also rolls back federal requirements that protect union work, including prevailing wage laws, apprenticeship standards, and project labor agreements. These protections are the foundation of our livelihoods removing them puts our jobs, training, and paychecks on the chopping block.

Prioritizing the Ultra-Wealthy at Our Expense
The biggest winners under this bill are corporations and the ultra-wealthy, who stand to gain billions. Meanwhile, working people IBEW members like you get little in return. This legislation widens the gap between the rich and the rest of us.

Brothers and Sisters,this bill is not for us. It threatens our jobs, our benefits, and the union protections we have fought hard to maintain. As your Business Manager, I will continue to keep you informed and fight for legislation that truly supports working families, not just the wealthy few.

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In solidarity,

Alan Marzullo
Business Manager/Financial Secretary
IBEW Local 43