Bill > LD2049

This bill establishes legal accountability for labor law violations in the construction and temporary staffing industries by creating joint and several liability between contractors and subcontractors, and between employment agencies and employers. Specifically, in the construction industry, a contractor and construction subcontractor are now jointly responsible for any labor law violations affecting the subcontractor's employees under Maine's labor chapters. If a subcontractor violates labor laws, they must indemnify (financially reimburse) the contractor for wages, damages, interest, penalties, and attorney's fees, unless the violation resulted from the contractor's failure to make prompt payment. Similarly, in temporary staffing arrangements, an employment agency and the employer are now jointly liable for labor law violations, with the employment agency required to indemnify the employer for any financial damages resulting from their violations. The bill defines "construction subcontractor" by referencing an existing definition in Maine's workers' compensation law. This legislation aims to create more accountability and financial protection for workers and employers in these industries by ensuring that labor law violations can be addressed comprehensively and that responsible parties can be held accountable.

Labor and Employment

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=2049&snum=132