The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) today launched an online application for public works contractors to meet the requirements of California Senate Bill 854. SB 854, which became effective June 20, establishes a new public works program to replace the Compliance Monitoring Unit and Labor Compliance Program requirements for bond-funded and other public works projects.
The new program will cover all public works in the state of California rather than just selected categories of projects. The Labor Commissioner’s Office will continue to monitor and enforce prevailing wage requirements.
Contractors must register and meet requirements using the new online application before bidding on public works contracts in California. The application also provides agencies that administer public works programs with a searchable database of qualified contractors.
Contractors’ requirements include that they maintain workers’ compensation coverage for all employees and only hire subcontractors who are registered public works contractors. They must also hold a Contractors State License Board license, if required for their trade.
In addition, contractors must not be debarred from working on public works by the state or federal government and have no delinquent wage or penalty assessments due to any enforcement agency or employee. Once registration becomes mandatory early next year, contractors will also be subject to penalties for bidding or working on public works without being registered with DIR.
Public works contractors can create an account online, pay the fee and complete the application securely. Application and renewal is completed entirely online with a nonrefundable fee of $300.
Agencies that administer public works projects may select from a pool of qualified contractors. They will no longer be charged fees for prevailing wage compliance monitoring and enforcement. Additional information on SB 854 and the new public works program is available on DIR’s website.
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