NASBP Focal Point – November 10, 2026

Federal Report

Federal: Last week’s midterm elections produced a significant shift in the political landscape, with Democrats capturing control of both the House and Senate. Based on the latest reported results, Democrats have secured 255 House seats compared to 163 for Republicans, with 17 races still undecided. In the Senate, Democrats have secured 54 seats compared to 44 for Republicans, with races in Alaska and Mississippi still undecided. These results establish a divided government for the final two years of President Trump’s administration, with significant implications for federal spending, infrastructure legislation, regulatory policy, and congressional oversight.

On Monday, Congress returned for a lame-duck session that will continue through December, before the 120th Congress convenes on January 3, 2027. Legislative priorities include federal government funding (set to expire on Dec. 11), the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), extensions of the expiring federal programs, such as suface transportation programs and potentially bipartisan permitting legislation. On Monday, the Senate voted 73–25 on a motion to proceed with consideration of permitting legislation, signaling potential momentum for action before Congress adjourns.

Mark your calendars: The 2027 NASBP Fly-in will once again take place at the Hilton Washington DC Capitol Hill, beginning on Tuesday, February 23, 2027, with the afternoon Washington Program followed by an evening welcome reception. NASBP has confirmed Reid Wilson, founder and editor of Pluribus News and former reporter for The Washington Post and The Hill, as a featured speaker for the Washington Program. Congressional visits will take place on Wednesday, February 24, 2027. Registration will open this month.

State Report

UT Proposed Regs: On November 4, NASBP submitted a comment letter to the Utah Division of Facilities Construction and Management (DFCM) addressing proposed regulations implementing HB 508, which granted DFCM discretion to waive performance and payment bond requirements on certain state construction projects.

NASBP’s comments focused on Section R23-1-1103, Payment and Performance Bond Requirements for Projects, particularly the criteria DFCM would use to determine when bonds may be required. These criteria include project complexity and scope, regional factors, site characteristics, procurement delivery methods, and funding sources. NASBP expressed concerns regarding the discretionary nature of these criteria and the potential implications for contractor prequalification, subcontractor and supplier protections, the importance of the bid bond, and taxpayer safeguards. NASBP will continue to monitor developments and keep members apprised of its advocacy efforts in Utah.

If you are aware of any bills impacting the industry, please reach out to Larry LeClair, NASBP’s Director of Government Relations, and let us know.