Bill > HB850

This bill, set to take effect on July 1, 2027, amends Virginia's public procurement laws to impose additional requirements on contractors and their subcontractors for public works projects classified as "capital outlay projects," which are defined as projects involving the acquisition or construction of buildings or other physical facilities. Specifically, contractors and subcontractors on these projects will be mandated to complete safety training programs approved by the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), maintain records demonstrating compliance with all relevant laws, and participate in apprenticeship training programs approved by the Commonwealth or the U.S. Department of Labor. A key provision requires that at least eight percent of the total "labor hours"—defined as the total hours worked by hourly wage employees directly on the project site, excluding foremen, superintendents, or owners—must be performed by apprentices, with contractors needing to report on apprentice labor hours and trades. However, these requirements can be adjusted or waived by the Governor or local governing bodies if there's a demonstrated lack of available apprentices in a specific area or if the cost of materials makes the apprentice participation requirement infeasible. Importantly, these new rules will not apply to transportation-related construction projects exceeding $250,000.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB850