Biden Admin to Boost Federal Grants for Higher Wages and Improved Benefits

By Thea Felicity

Sep 06 2024, 09:47 AM EDT

President Joe Biden has signed a bipartisan bill that bans imports of enriched uranium from Russia. Uranium is the fuel most used by nuclear power plants. Scott Olson/Getty Images

This Friday, September 8, outgoing US President Joe Biden will be signing an executive order to priorize federal grants for projects that will offer better wages and benefits.

According to WFLA, the order will ensure that government-funded projects will meet higher labor standards, which should comprise access to child care and apprenticeship programs. The Biden admin hopes that the new policy will improve job conditions and support workers for economic growth purposes.

Once signed, a task force will be responsible for tackling some of the major government-funded projects touching on infrastructure, manufacturing computer chips, and renewable energy.

New Labor Policy for More Union Support

ABC News shared that Biden's plan is to make the announcement at a union training center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, an indication of the administration's reach for organized labor.

Now, it's a tactical move to firm up the usually friendly relationships the administration has with the unions ahead of the upcoming US Presidential election this November.

The vice president's campaign against Republican Donald Trump up to now has rested in part on endorsements from unions like the AFL-CIO as she works to turn out voters in key states.

While Trump has also worked to gain favor from organized labor groups, he has yet to win formal endorsements. His campaign has included appearances by Teamsters President Sean O'Brien, but the Teamsters so far have not endorsed anyone.

As opposite, Harris is expected to meet with them soon.

Biden Admin's Investment in Private Sectors

With over 2 months left in his administration, Biden has already paid off massive investments towards private sector, including $4.3 billion committed to renewable energy and manufacturing, per VCPost.

These investments have also not necessarily resonated deeply with voters, who remain anxious about the impacts of inflation that occurred before Biden took office.

Many of those projects will take several years to realize their potential, and it is critically important that the current and upcoming administration keeps up its attention to worker benefits and job quality, as well.