Substitute Senate Bill No. 356 aims to strengthen the regulation of wages and employee welfare contributions for public works projects in the state. Key provisions include the requirement for electronic filing of certified payroll and daily logs for construction-related contracts, ensuring that wages paid to workers meet or exceed the prevailing rates in the locality. The bill expands the definition of "public works" to encompass off-site custom fabrication and mandates that agents responsible for contract letting consult the Labor Commissioner to determine appropriate wage rates and contributions before advertising contracts. Additionally, it requires contractors to provide sworn certifications of pay scales and maintain detailed records of wages and hours worked, with monthly submissions to the Labor Commissioner starting December 1, 2028.

The bill introduces significant penalties for non-compliance, including fines of up to $5,000 for failing to file certified payrolls, which are classified as a Class D felony. It also establishes a framework for the Labor Commissioner to create an online system for submitting and maintaining certified payroll records, ensuring transparency while protecting personally identifiable information. Certain provisions regarding public works projects funded by private bequests will not apply under specific financial thresholds for municipalities in New Haven County. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2026, with an anticipated one-time cost of at least $2.5 million for the Department of Labor in FY 29.