Senate Bill 490 aims to establish a prevailing wage law for laborers, workers, mechanics, and truck drivers engaged in public works projects in Wisconsin. The bill mandates that these workers be compensated at the prevailing wage rate, which is defined as the hourly basic rate of pay plus contributions for bona fide economic benefits, based on the majority of hours worked in a specific trade or occupation within the project area. It also stipulates that workers cannot be required to work more than the prevailing hours of labor—set at 10 hours per day and 40 hours per week—without receiving overtime pay. The Department of Workforce Development (DWD) is tasked with determining prevailing wage rates and conducting investigations to ensure compliance. The bill includes provisions for contractors to incorporate prevailing wage requirements into contracts and mandates that state agencies and local governments post relevant wage information.

Additionally, the bill repeals existing laws related to certain highway projects and modifies various statutes to align with the new prevailing wage framework. It introduces penalties for contractors who fail to comply with wage requirements, including liability for unpaid wages and liquidated damages equal to the unpaid amounts. The bill also establishes a process for local governmental units to request prevailing wage determinations from the DWD and outlines the necessary steps for compliance, including the incorporation of wage rates into contracts and the prohibition of contracts with non-compliant entities. Overall, Senate Bill 490 seeks to create a uniform standard for prevailing wages across the state, enhancing worker protections in public works projects.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 66.0129(5), 66.0129, 66.0903(1)(c), 66.0903, 66.0903(1)(f), 66.0903(1)(g), 66.0903(1)(j), 66.0903(1m)(b)