The Collins' administration submitted new rules and regulations on the law to the County Legislature two months ago. In that time, the majority Democrats had the opportunity to vote against the change, but failed to do so. So, Collins' rules automatically took effect after 60 days.

Many union contractors have also encouraged a suspension of the law, since a state moratorium on the approval of new apprenticeship programs has prevented them from bidding on major county jobs.

Collins says bidders previously acknowledged that prices were 20 to 30 percent higher when the law was in effect.

The County Executive says the suspension will mean better value to the taxpayer and more jobs in the county. Collins says they are sending a signal to the rest of the state that Erie County is open for business. © Copyright 2009, WBFO