The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 268, aims to empower the Comptroller to withhold payments to contractors or subcontractors who violate prevailing wage statutes, specifically subsection (b) of section 31-53, after a stop work order has been issued by the Labor Commissioner. The bill introduces new provisions that require the Labor Commissioner to notify the Comptroller of any stop work orders issued against contractors or subcontractors working on public works projects. Following this notification, the Comptroller must inform the contractor or subcontractor of their non-compliance, allowing them ten business days to rectify the situation. If compliance is not achieved within this timeframe, the Comptroller is authorized to withhold payments until the stop work order is lifted or penalties are paid.

Additionally, the bill repeals and replaces section 31-76a of the general statutes, enhancing the enforcement mechanisms for wage payment laws. It grants the Labor Commissioner and their designees the authority to investigate wage violations, issue subpoenas, and impose fines for non-compliance. The legislation also stipulates that any penalties or stop work orders issued against a corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship for violations will apply to any successor entities with shared principals or officers engaged in similar trades. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen compliance with prevailing wage laws and ensure that workers are paid fairly for their labor.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 31-76a