Senate Bill No. 1488 aims to enhance enforcement of prevailing wage statutes by allowing the Labor Commissioner to notify the state Comptroller when a stop work order is issued against a contractor or subcontractor for violations related to prevailing wage laws on public works projects. The bill introduces new provisions that enable the Comptroller to withhold payments to the contractor or subcontractor until the stop work order is lifted, penalties are paid, or a settlement agreement is finalized. This is a significant change as it provides a financial incentive for compliance with wage laws, ensuring that workers receive fair compensation.

The bill also repeals and replaces Section 31-76a of the general statutes, which outlines the powers of the Labor Commissioner and the director of Wage and Workplace Standards in investigating wage violations. Key insertions include the authority for the Comptroller to withhold payments based on the Labor Commissioner's notifications and the stipulation that each day of non-compliance constitutes a separate offense. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and is expected to have a fiscal impact by potentially reducing costs to the General Fund through the enforcement of prevailing wage compliance.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 31-76a
LAB Joint Favorable: 31-76a
File No. 344: 31-76a