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Bill > SB5061
WA SB5061
WA SB5061Requiring certain wages in public works contracts to be at least the prevailing wage in effect when the work is performed.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2025
01/13/2025
In Committee
04/01/2025
04/01/2025
Crossed Over
03/12/2025
03/12/2025
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
Potential new amendment
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT Relating to requiring wages for laborers, workers, and 2 mechanics in public works contracts to be at least the prevailing 3 rate of wage in effect at the time the work is performed; amending 4 RCW 39.12.030; creating a new section; and providing an effective 5 date. 6
AI Summary
This bill addresses the prevailing wage requirements for public works contracts in Washington state. Currently, prevailing wages are typically frozen from the time bids are due, regardless of how long a project takes to complete. The legislation aims to ensure fair labor standards by requiring that wages be adjusted annually to match the latest prevailing wage rates published by the Department of Labor and Industries. Specifically, the bill mandates that public works contract specifications include provisions for hourly minimum wages that are not less than the prevailing rate, with an important exception for residential construction projects and projects under RCW 39.04.151. If a contract initially specifies residential construction rates but is later determined to be a commercial project, the awarding agency must pay the difference between the residential and commercial rates to the contractor. The bill reflects the state legislature's commitment to protecting workers by ensuring they receive appropriate compensation that keeps pace with current wage standards. The new provisions will take effect on July 1, 2027, giving contractors and government agencies time to prepare for the changes.
Committee Categories
Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Labor and Employment, Transportation and Infrastructure
Sponsors (10)
Steve Conway (D)*,
Mike Chapman (D),
Bob Hasegawa (D),
Marko Liias (D),
T'wina Nobles (D),
Marcus Riccelli (D),
Rebecca Saldaña (D),
Jesse Salomon (D),
Derek Stanford (D),
Javier Valdez (D),
Last Action
By resolution, returned to Senate Rules Committee for third reading. (on 04/27/2025)
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