Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB482

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/12/23
• Refer: 10/12/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Expenditure of $563,557.14 from the general fund in payment of a claim against the state made by Payne and Dolan, Inc. (FE)

Impact

The bill's authorization for expenditure is significant as it underscores the state's role in managing contractor claims and ensuring appropriate compensation for additional project costs. By addressing this claim, the state aims to maintain a smooth relationship with contractors, encouraging them to engage in future projects without hesitation regarding financial disputes related to contractual obligations.

Summary

Assembly Bill 482 is focused on authorizing the expenditure of $563,557.14 from the state's general fund to settle a claim made by Payne and Dolan, Inc., a contractor that worked on highway resurfacing projects in Racine and Kenosha Counties. The claim relates to additional expenses incurred by the contractor due to the requirement of transporting asphalt and concrete to a local dump. The bill seeks to provide funds and thereby release the state from further liability associated with these projects.

Contention

However, the background surrounding this claim reveals a level of contention involving the Department of Transportation (DOT), which argued that the contractor's requirement to transport materials was in accordance with the contract's terms. The claims board had previously denied the claim based on the need for judicial interpretation of contract terms, thus placing the bill within discussions about accountability and interpretation of state contracts.

Further_details

AB482 highlights not just the financial obligation of the state but also signals the importance of clear contractual terms in construction projects. It raises potential concerns about how such claims might be handled in the future and whether further legislative guidance is necessary to avoid similar disputes.