This bill amends Chapter 37-13 of the General Laws, which governs labor and payment of debts by contractors, by raising the minimum contract price threshold for public works and school transportation service contracts from $1,000 to $100,000. This change requires contractors and subcontractors to pay their employees at weekly intervals and comply with prevailing wage laws for contracts valued at $100,000 or more.

The bill introduces new provisions regarding the posting of wage rates, the inclusion of statutory provisions in contracts, and the enforcement of prevailing wage requirements by municipalities. It establishes a new section detailing the responsibilities of municipalities in ensuring compliance with prevailing wage laws for contracts valued at $100,000 or more. Municipalities will be required to review certified payrolls, report suspected wage violations to the Department of Labor and Training (DLT), and coordinate with the DLT for enforcement.

The legislation outlines penalties for violations, including civil fines ranging from $100 to $500 per day per violation, the issuance of stop-work orders, and potential debarment for repeat offenders for up to three years. It also provides protections for workers against retaliation for filing complaints regarding noncompliance. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.