Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7796

Introduced
2/29/24  

Caption

Prohibits the use of project labor agreements in new school construction projects.

Note

As the bill progresses through legislative channels, it will be essential to observe the reactions from both supporters and opponents, particularly regarding its implications for future school construction projects and labor relations in Rhode Island.

Impact

Should HB 7796 be enacted, it would directly alter the regulatory landscape surrounding public school construction in Rhode Island. By disallowing project labor agreements, which typically involve predefined labor arrangements between employers and unions, the bill aims to streamline the contracting process for schools. Proponents may argue that this change could facilitate more competitive bidding processes, potentially lowering costs for school districts. However, this shift also raises concerns among labor advocates about the potential loss of protections and benefits for workers engaged in these construction projects.

Summary

House Bill 7796, introduced by Representative P. Morgan, seeks to amend the General Laws related to education specifically concerning school funds and property. The primary objective of the bill is to prohibit the use of project labor agreements in the undertaking of new school construction projects. This legislative proposal reflects a significant shift in how public school construction contracts may be managed, particularly in regards to labor negotiations and agreements.

Contention

The discussion around HB 7796 is likely to engage various stakeholders, including educators, labor unions, and construction companies. Critics of the bill may contend that prohibiting project labor agreements could undermine labor rights and diminish the ability of workers to negotiate fair wages and working conditions. Additionally, advocates argue that such agreements are instrumental in ensuring project continuity and timely completion, and their elimination may lead to inefficiencies or quality issues in construction work.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5493

Labor Standards In Renewable Energy Projects

RI S0771

Labor Standards In Renewable Energy Projects

RI H6057

Department Of Administration--state Construction Projects Metrics

RI S0868

Joint Resolution Authorizing The State To Enter Into A Financing Agreement Relating To School Construction In The City Of Pawtucket (authorizes The State To Finance The Construction Of A New High School And Facilities And All Expenses Incident Thereto.)

RI H6211

Joint Resolution Authorizing The State To Enter Into A Financing Agreement Relating To School Construction In The City Of Pawtucket (authorizes The State To Finance The Construction Of A New High School And Facilities And All Expenses Incident Thereto.)

RI S0018

Authorizing The Town Of North Providence To Issue Not To Exceed $125,000,000 General Obligation Bonds, Notes And Other Evidences Of Indebtedness To Finance The Construction, Renovation, Rehabilitation, Repair, Improvements, Furnishing And Equipping Of And/or Additions To Schools And School Facilities In The Town, Including, But Not Limited To, The Construction Of Three Elementary Schools, The Renovation Of Two Middle Schools And The Construction Of New Administrative Offices, Subject To Approval Of State Housing Aid At A Reimbursement Rate Or State Share Ratio Of Not Less Than 79.8% For Expenditures Eligible For Reimbursement

RI H6335

In Accordance With Rhode Island General Laws Section 16-7-44 Approving The Issuance Of $1,000,000 Bonds By The Town Of Scituate To Finance A Water Project At The Scituate High School/middle School Including, But Not Limited To, Bonds And Notes Issued Pursuant To Financing Agreements With The Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank

RI H6126

Amending Chapters 106 And 107 Of The Local Acts Of 2021 Both Entitled "relating To School Construction And Financing In The City Of Central Falls And Authorizing The City Of Central Falls To Issue Not To Exceed $5,760,000 General Obligation Bonds, Notes And Other Evidences Of Indebtedness To Finance The Construction, Renovation, Improvement, Alteration, Repair, Furnishing And Equipping Of Schools And School Facilities In The City"

RI H6276

Authorizing The Town Of South Kingstown To Issue Not To Exceed $125,000,000 General Obligation Bonds And Notes To Finance The Acquisition, Construction, Improvement, Renovation, Furnishing And Equipping Of A New High School, Athletic Facility, And Other School Facilities In The Town And All Expenses Incident Thereto, Including, But Not Limited To, Costs Of Design, Demolition, Athletic Fields, Landscaping And Parking And All Attendant Expenses, Including Engineering, Architectural And Other Project-related Consulting Costs, Provided That The Authorization Shall Be Reduced By The Amount Of Certain Grants Received From State Bond Proceeds, From The Rhode Island Department Of Education Or From The Rhode Island School Building Authority

RI S0994

Authorizing The Town Of South Kingstown To Issue Not To Exceed $125,000,000 General Obligation Bonds And Notes To Finance The Acquisition, Construction, Improvement, Renovation, Furnishing And Equipping Of A New High School, Athletic Facility, And Other School Facilities In The Town And All Expenses Incident Thereto, Including, But Not Limited To, Costs Of Design, Demolition, Athletic Fields, Landscaping And Parking And All Attendant Expenses, Including Engineering, Architectural And Other Project-related Consulting Costs, Provided That The Authorization Shall Be Reduced By The Amount Of Certain Grants Received From State Bond Proceeds, From The Rhode Island Department Of Education Or From The Rhode Island School Building Authority

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.