Substitute Bill No. 6862 is a legislative proposal that aims to regulate the construction of broadband infrastructure and ensure that prevailing wage standards are met. The bill amends Section 16-330c of the general statutes to establish a grant program for broadband deployment, with specific criteria for applications, including a 20% cost-sharing requirement from applicants' own funds. It prioritizes grant applicants who demonstrate a commitment to workforce training, direct employment, diversity in hiring, and compliance with labor laws. The bill also introduces a point system for awarding grants and mandates adherence to prevailing wage requirements. Additionally, it imposes reporting obligations on grant recipients and the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, with penalties for non-compliance or false reporting.

The bill further amends labor laws to include broadband installation projects in the scope of public works projects subject to prevailing wage rates. It requires that contracts for such projects stipulate wages and employee welfare fund contributions at prevailing rates, with penalties for violations, including fines and potential debarment. The Labor Commissioner is tasked with determining prevailing wage rates and contributions, using the Davis-Bacon Act determinations when no collective bargaining agreement is in effect. Contractors must certify pay scales under oath, and contract-letting agents must ascertain proper wage rates before advertising for bids. The bill, which has received favorable recommendations, is set to take effect on July 1, 2023, and will amend and introduce sections in the general statutes to enforce these provisions.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 16-330c
LAB Joint Favorable Substitute: 16-330c
File No. 491: 16-330c
APP Joint Favorable: 16-330c