As the first and founding chapter of the American Subcontractors Association (ASA), ASA Metro Washington is part of a network of ASA chapters that concentrates exclusively on the business issues affecting all subcontractors and specialty trade contractors, both union and non-union firms, from virtually every trade specialty. The American Subcontractors Association (ASA), is an IRS section 501(c)(6) non-profit, national, membership trade association with over 5,000 subcontractors, specialty trade contractors, suppliers and service providers serving the construction industry. ASA is dedicated to improving the business environment for all segments of the construction industry through advocacy, leadership, education and networking. The ideals and beliefs of ASA are ethical and equitable business practices, quality construction, a safe and healthy work environment, integrity and membership diversity. As a subcontractor advocate, ASA works at both the Federal and State levels to make the changes necessary to protect subcontractor rights with regard to prompt pay, fair procurement policies, harmful indemnity clauses, retention practices, egregious and abusive contract terms, OSHA rules and economic and tax rules, just to name a few. Established in the Metro Washington area in 1964, ASA of Metro Washington membership provides opportunities for business development, education, information sharing, networking, and access to the latest trends in construction. ASA Metro Washington members represent nearly every specialty trade for both commercial and residential construction. Members are also service providers to the subcontracting community such as material suppliers, legal, financial and insurance firms, management and business consultants and more.