[1] The association was founded in Baltimore, Maryland in 1950 to advocate "for free enterprise and open competition in the U.S. construction industry.

"[2] ABC engages in legislative and regulatory advocacy at the federal and state levels, focusing primarily on labor and employment law.

ABC has engaged in extensive litigation against the U.S. Department of Labor and other federal agencies during the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden.

[4][5] The Center for Responsive Politics has designated ABC as a "Heavy Hitter", rating it among the largest overall contributors to federal elections over the past two decades.

The group also ranks among the 50 largest trade associations in the nation according to Washington Business Journal.