The bill mandates that state entities must comply with these prevailing wage requirements when awarding contracts for construction exceeding $100,000. It includes provisions that compel contractors and subcontractors to maintain accurate records of wages paid, providing transparency and protection for workers. Moreover, the Labor Commission will be tasked with investigating any alleged violations of the prevailing wage provisions and ensuring compliance across state-funded projects.
Summary
SB0129 establishes a framework for prevailing wage requirements on state construction projects in Utah. Under this bill, workers on these projects must be compensated at the prevailing wage, which is defined as the wage that is determined by the United States Department of Labor and is generally paid to workers performing similar work in the locality where the project takes place. The legislation aims to ensure that workers are fairly compensated, reflecting local wage standards for the type of work being performed.
Contention
Opponents of the bill may argue that imposing a prevailing wage could increase project costs, possibly leading to fewer projects being undertaken and reduced competition among contractors. There are also concerns regarding the administrative burden on contractors to maintain compliance and documentation of wage rates, which could disproportionately affect smaller contracting firms. This aspect of the bill may prompt discussions surrounding economic impacts on the contracting industry in Utah, particularly during bidding processes for state projects.
Expands scope of public works subject to prevailing wage requirements; concerns prevailing wage law requirements for public institutions of higher education.