The American Subcontractors Association of Baltimore, Inc., in an effort to enhance subcontractors rights, supports an active legislative agenda each year. Since 1994, ASA of Baltimore has been instrumental in having seven pieces of legislation passed that has improved mechanic's lien laws, reduced the scope of "pay if paid" clauses and reduced retainage for public work in Maryland to a maximum of 5%.

Beginning in 2005, ASA of Baltimore undertook the monumental effort to reduce retainage on private projects in Maryland. The legislature is extremely reluctant to become involved in private contractural matters. However, our attempts were so well received in the House (almost unanimously) that we continued our efforts despite meeting stiff resistance in the Senate.

In the 2008 General Assembly, our bill was passed through the Senate committee for the first time and sent to the full Senate for a vote. The bill was amended by the full Senate but was passed. And on May 13, 2008 Governor O'Malley signed this groundbreaking bill making it a law effective October 1, 2008. The passage of this bill demonstrates that when working together, subcontractors have the ability to shape public policy an improve their rights in ways previously thought impossible.

By becoming a member of the American Subcontractors Association you are supporting the only association that works for the sole benefit of subcontractors! At ASA, our focus is to help enhance subcontractor rights and enhance their business knowledge. Our legislative efforts are designed to help you compete fairly in the business world. After all, just because you are a subcontractor does not mean that you are subordinate! Join ASA and help change laws to "level the playing field".

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