This bill establishes criminal penalties for specific violations of the New Jersey Prevailing Wage Act, enhancing the legal consequences for employers who engage in fraudulent activities related to certified payroll records or public works contractor registration forms. Under the new provisions, an employer who knowingly falsifies a payroll record or willfully makes a false statement on a registration form will be guilty of a crime of the fourth degree. This designation carries a potential penalty of up to $10,000 in fines, a maximum of 18 months in prison, or both, in addition to any other penalties that may be imposed under existing law.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that a county prosecutor or the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development must notify the Attorney General upon identifying a violation. This notification allows the Attorney General to decide whether to take over the prosecution or investigation of the case or refer it back to the county prosecutor for further action. This change aims to strengthen enforcement of the Prevailing Wage Act and ensure accountability for employers who violate its provisions.