Oregon House approves joint‑liability bill aimed at unpaid construction wages

The Oregon House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 4 26 B on May 28, 2025, a measure that creates joint civil liability for unpaid wages in the construction industry and adds a 21‑day right to cure and targeted exemptions for owner‑occupied residences and small properties.

Supporters said the bill gives workers a faster route to recover stolen wages and promotes industry accountability. Representative Max Fragula, the bill carrier, said, "At the heart of the bill is the idea that the that hardworking Oregonians who help to build our community should be paid for the work they do." Proponents pointed to long complaint backlogs at the Bureau of Labor and Industries and to studies showing substantial uncollected wages in construction.

Under the legislation as debated on the House floor, a worker (or an authorized third party) may pursue unpaid wages up the contracting chain after providing written notice; owners or direct contractors have…