CA Prevailing Wage
Under California state law, contractors working on public works projects are required to pay their workers prevailing wages and benefits. This requirement applies to all employees working on projects when the total cost of the public works project exceeds $1,000. The prevailing wage rates, which include both hourly wages and benefits, are determined and enforced by the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). These regulations ensure that workers receive fair compensation in line with industry standards while promoting fair competition among contractors bidding on public projects.
Contractors can be sure they comply with the law by completing the following:
1.
Registering as a public works contractor with the California Department of Industrial Relations before bidding on public works projects.
2.
Submitting and maintaining certified payroll records for all workers through the DIR eCPR system; unless your project falls under the following exemptions.
3.
Checking bid and contract documents to make sure the correct prevailing wage rates are being paid for each craft or trade working on the project.
4.
Properly paying overtime to employees for work done in excess of eight hours per day or forty hours per week.
5.
Providing the DAS 140 form to all applicable Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees.
*Contract award information must be sent within 10 days of the signing of a contract/subcontract, or by the first day of work, whichever occurs first. Contractors who submit the DAS 140 outside this timeframe are considered out of compliance and may be subject to penalties.
6.
Following the proper apprenticeship ratio.
7.
Providing the DAS 142 form for dispatch of an apprentice at least 72 hours in advance; excluding weekends and holidays.
8.
Following all apprenticeship requirements in accordance with the DIR.
9.
Responding promptly to requests for certified payroll records.
in accordance with the DIR.
Violations Of CA Prevailing wage Laws Can be COSTLY!
-
Fines of up to $200 per day, per worker paid less than the applicable prevailing wage rate.
-
Liability for back wages.
-
Debarment from bidding on future public works contracts for up to 3 years.
Examples of Violations:
-
Unpaid prevailing wages (including unreported hours)
-
Unpaid overtime
-
Unpaid travel and subsistence pay
-
Misclassification of workers
