Bill > H5366

This bill introduces comprehensive protections for employees in the construction industry by establishing civil administrative remedies against contractors and subcontractors for wage theft. The legislation defines key terms like "construction" and "contractor" and creates a framework where contractors can be held financially responsible for wage violations committed by their subcontractors. Specifically, contractors must assume liability for unpaid wages or benefits owed to workers, with the requirement that employees provide written notice of alleged wage theft within 45 days of the last occurrence. The bill limits a contractor's liability to 120 consecutive days of potential wage theft and allows only civil and administrative actions to recover claimed wages. Importantly, employees can authorize representatives, including labor organizations, to file wage claims on their behalf, and contractors cannot contractually waive these responsibilities. The bill includes an exception for collective bargaining agreements with bona fide construction trade labor organizations, allowing them to potentially modify these provisions. The legislation will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to construction contracts entered into, renewed, modified, or amended after that date, providing a clear timeline for implementation and giving industry participants time to adjust to the new requirements.

Labor and Employment

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