Connecticut Senate Bill SB00486

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/16/20
• Refer: 3/16/20

Caption

An Act Concerning Requirements For Construction Managers That Self-perform Portions Of School Construction Projects.

Impact

The implications of SB00486 could lead to a significant shift in how school construction projects are managed in the state. By mandating the lowest responsible qualified bidder to be chosen after a public invitation to bid, the bill is designed to promote fairness in the procurement process and encourage competitive pricing. This could lead to improved cost efficiency for school construction projects, as state funds must be utilized judiciously. However, the requirement for construction managers to self-perform work limits the principle of utilizing subcontractors, which may affect the project delivery dynamics.

Summary

SB00486 aims to establish more stringent requirements for construction managers engaged in school construction projects that are funded by the state. The bill outlines specific processes for awarding construction contracts, emphasizing the importance of adhering to public bidding protocols. Under this legislation, construction management contracts must include a guaranteed maximum price, which is determined within a set timeframe after selecting the involved subcontractors. This allows for better financial oversight and helps ensure accountability in public projects.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB00486 include the balance between cost savings and quality assurance in school construction projects. Detractors of the bill may argue that while the intention is to minimize costs, restricting subcontractor involvement could lead to inefficiencies or subpar work if a construction manager is stretched too thin. Additionally, the stipulation that construction managers may only self-perform work if they are part of a state-registered apprenticeship program introduces complexities that could impede hiring flexibility. This may result in additional debates on compliance and the practical impacts on local contractor businesses.