A definition should be simple, straightforward, and clear. But in New York state, when it comes to a definition of "public work," it's anything but.

New York has a long history of protecting public work employees and protecting their state constitutional right to prevailing wages and benefits on public works projects. However, the question of where these prevailing rates should apply has become increasingly difficult to determine because the definition of public work continues to be altered based on judicial interpretation.

The average New Yorker may believe that the definition of public work is just legislative jargon. But how this work is defined has a widespread impact on New York's working class families. A clear definition of public works can go a long way in offering the opportunities and support that the working-class across this state is in desperate need of, including guaranteeing area standard wages. Without a clear definition, unscrupulous contractors will continue to take public subsidies and stifle wages.

The Public Works bill (A5498A/ S2975A) would restore the spirit and intent of the New York state constitution by ensuring more projects receiving taxpayer's resources are defined as "public works" and the hardworking folks working those jobs are paid fair wages.

Yet organizations such as the Association of Builders and Contractors (ABC) have been campaigning against this legislation. They claim to have the best interest of workers at the center of their effort — but as we've seen time and time again, that is simply not true. ABC's only interest is to weaken the unionized construction industry by fighting against safety and training, fighting against area standard wage, and now, fighting against a clear definition of public work.

Legislators in Albany have a choice: to support legislation that would clearly define public works and create economic opportunities for working-class families throughout the state, or let this issue wait even longer and let the forces that work tirelessly against New York's working class — like the Association of Building Contractors — win.

In a time when the dedicated working-class families of New York are being attacked and scrutinized and their futures are being put in jeopardy over profit and greed, we need to stand up for what is right. By enacting this legislation, New York will reaffirm itself as leader in protecting and advancing the working class.

Joseph Geiger is executive secretary-treasurer of the New York City and Vicinity District Council of Carpenters.