Bill > HB1206

This bill, effective July 1, 2026, amends Indiana Code 36-1-12-4 to provide local public works boards with additional factors to consider when determining the lowest responsible and responsive bidder for public work projects costing at least $300,000. Specifically, the bill allows boards to give additional consideration to a bidder that is determined to be responsible and responsive, and whose bid is not more than five percent (5%) greater than the lowest bid from a bidder not meeting these criteria, provided the board determines awarding the contract to this bidder is in the best interest of the project and community. This preferred bidder must commit to employing Indiana residents, defined as individuals whose primary residence is in Indiana for at least twelve consecutive months before project work begins, for at least sixty percent (60%) of the total workforce. Furthermore, the bidder must demonstrate participation in a U.S. Department of Labor-recognized apprenticeship program, verify workforce eligibility and provide E-Verify case numbers, maintain a policy prohibiting independent contractors to ensure all workers are properly classified employees covered by appropriate insurance and tax withholdings, and submit certified payroll reports verifying compliance with wage and labor standards.

Labor and Employment

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2026/bills/house/1206/details