Bill would make public‑works pay follow current prevailing wages during project performance; supporters say it reduces turnover, opponents warn of bid unpredict

The Senate Labor & Commerce Committee on Jan. 24 heard Senate Bill 5061, which would require public works contracts to adjust minimum wages for laborers, workers and mechanics so that they are not less than the prevailing wage in effect at the time the work is performed.

Committee staff Jared Sachs explained the current law: the prevailing wage is set by the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) and is determined at the time the prime contractor’s bid is due or, when a contract is not awarded within six months, at the date the contract is awarded. L&I publishes prevailing wage rates twice a year in February and August (with updates taking effect 30 days after publication). The bill would require contracts to stipulate that minimum wage rates be adjusted so the wage is at least the latest prevailing rate in effect when the work actually occurs.

Union and labor representatives…