Substitute House Bill No. 6955 introduces new obligations for contractors regarding unpaid wages owed to employees of subcontractors involved in construction contracts, effective October 1, 2025. The bill establishes definitions for "construction contract," "contractor," "subcontractor," "employee," and "owner," and holds contractors jointly and severally liable for any unpaid wages due to subcontractor employees. It allows contractors to include provisions in their contracts with subcontractors that address remedies for nonpayment, provided these do not infringe upon employees' rights to pursue legal action for unpaid wages.

Furthermore, the bill 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. It mandates that employees give at least thirty days' notice to the contractor before initiating legal action, although this requirement is waived if the employee has previously notified the contractor about the same or a similar violation. The bill also clarifies that any contractual provisions that waive or release the contractor's liability for unpaid wages are unenforceable, ensuring that contractors remain accountable. Overall, the bill aims to enhance protections for employees in the construction industry 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