Connecticut Senate Bill SB00484

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Concerning An Increase To The Prevailing Wage Threshold For Renovations.

Impact

The implications of this bill on state law could be substantial. By increasing the prevailing wage threshold, the bill reduces the number of public works projects required to pay prevailing wages, potentially affecting the income of workers who rely on these wages for their livelihood. Additionally, the indexing to inflation is a notable aspect, as it suggests that future adjustments would automatically reflect increases in construction costs, thereby attempting to maintain a balance over time. This could lead to a more predictable and manageable financial environment for public projects.

Summary

SB00484 proposes to amend the existing prevailing wage laws by increasing the cost threshold for triggering these wages for renovations of public works. Specifically, the bill aims to raise the threshold from $100,000 to $400,000. This significant increase is intended to adjust for inflation, aligning it with the growing costs associated with public construction projects. By raising this threshold, the bill seeks to reduce the number of projects that would be subject to prevailing wage rates, which are designed to ensure that workers are paid a fair wage during such public contracting work.

Contention

Supporters of SB00484 argue that raising the threshold will provide financial relief for public entities managing renovation projects and stimulate economic activity by allowing for more comprehensive renovations without the added burden of prevailing wage laws. However, opponents contend that this could lead to a decrease in wage standards for workers in the construction industry, undermining labor rights and potentially resulting in a 'race to the bottom' in terms of worker compensation. The bill has sparked discussions regarding the balance between controlling public expenditure and ensuring fair wages for workers.