Substitute House Bill No. 6955 introduces new responsibilities for contractors regarding unpaid wages owed to employees of subcontractors in the construction industry, effective October 1, 2025. The bill establishes that contractors will be jointly and severally liable for any unpaid wages due to subcontractor employees working under a construction contract. It allows contractors to include provisions in their contracts with subcontractors that outline remedies for nonpayment of wages, as long as these provisions do not limit employees' rights to pursue legal action for unpaid wages. The bill also amends Section 31-72 of the general statutes, enabling employees or their labor organizations to file civil actions against either the subcontractor or the contractor for unpaid wages, with a requirement for prior notice to the contractor if they are involved in the action.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies definitions related to "construction contracts," "contractors," and "subcontractors," ensuring consistency across the new provisions. It specifies that construction contracts include those for construction, renovation, or rehabilitation in the state, while excluding certain public works and home improvement contracts under specific conditions. The bill also states that any contractual provisions attempting to waive or release a contractor's liability for unpaid wages will be unenforceable. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance accountability for wage payments in the construction sector without imposing additional fiscal burdens on the state or municipalities.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 31-72
LAB Joint Favorable Substitute: 31-72
File No. 353: 31-72