Connecticut House Bill HB05248

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/11
• Refer: 1/13/11

Caption

An Act Concerning Changes To The Prevailing Wage Threshold.

Impact

The potential impact of HB 05248 on state laws includes a significant restructuring of how prevailing wages are mandated on public works projects. By raising the threshold amounts, the bill could reduce the wage costs associated with smaller projects, which might encourage more local governments and agencies to undertake such projects without the financial strain imposed by prevailing wage compliance. This change might stimulate economic activity related to construction but could also raise questions about worker wage standards in these smaller projects.

Summary

House Bill 05248 proposes to amend Section 31-53 of the general statutes to increase the prevailing wage threshold applicable to public works projects. Specifically, the bill seeks to exempt new construction projects with total costs under $1 million and remodeling or repair projects costing less than $500,000 from the prevailing wage requirement. This legislative change aims to ease financial burdens on smaller public works projects, where compliance with prevailing wage laws is often seen as a hindrance to cost-effective project execution.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding this bill stem from concerns about worker protections and the overall implications for wage standards in the construction industry. Proponents argue that easing these wage requirements is essential for fostering local economic growth and making smaller projects more feasible. Opponents, on the other hand, fear that raising these thresholds may lead to lower wages for workers in the construction sector, eroding labor standards and potentially putting skilled laborers at risk of underpayment on smaller public works projects.