Bill > SB5293

This bill modifies the way prevailing wages are determined for public works projects in Washington state. Currently, the industrial statistician at the Department of Labor and Industries sets prevailing wages, and this bill introduces changes to the process over time. Until May 31, 2027, prevailing wages will be established by adopting hourly wages, benefits, and overtime rates from collective bargaining agreements, with the highest rate prevailing when multiple agreements exist. Starting June 1, 2027, the bill introduces a more nuanced approach: for trades with multiple collective bargaining agreements, the industrial statistician must determine the rate representing the majority or plurality of workers. The bill also allows interested parties to appeal prevailing wage determinations by proving the rate does not accurately represent worker rates. For ship building and ship repair trades, the highest collective bargaining rate will prevail after June 1, 2027. In counties or trades without collective bargaining agreements, the industrial statistician will continue to establish prevailing wages through wage and hour surveys or other appropriate methods. The bill also includes a provision that the time for recovering owed wages is paused until the prevailing wage determination is finalized.

Business and Industry

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5293&Year=2025&Initiative=false