A bill for an act requiring the consideration of project labor agreements for certain state construction projects.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jerome Amos and 2 co-sponsors

HF 185 requires state agencies to consider project labor agreements for large construction projects, enhancing efficiency, safety, and quality while reducing conflicts.

Introduced, referred to Commerce.

#constructionwork #departmentsofstategovernment #laborandemployment

Summary of Bill HF 185

Bill Number: HF 185
Title: A bill for an act requiring the consideration of project labor agreements for certain state construction projects.
Status: Introduced, referred to Commerce
Introduced Date: January 30, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Construction work, departments of state government, labor and employment

Purpose and Intent

Bill HF 185 aims to enhance the efficiency, safety, and quality of state construction projects by requiring state agencies to consider the use of project labor agreements (PLAs). These agreements are intended to streamline labor relations and ensure compliance with relevant laws, thereby benefiting the public and the state’s interests.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines several important provisions regarding the implementation of project labor agreements:

Consideration of PLAs:

State agencies must evaluate the potential benefits of using PLAs for large-scale construction projects, focusing on cost, efficiency, quality, safety, and timely completion.

Decision-Making Process:

If a state agency determines that a PLA would advance the state's interests, it may require all contractors and subcontractors to negotiate or become parties to a PLA. This decision must be supported by written findings demonstrating the expected benefits.

Requirements of PLAs:

PLAs must include the following elements:
- Binding agreements for all contractors and subcontractors involved in the project.
- Opportunities for all contractors to compete for contracts, regardless of their collective bargaining status.
- Guarantees against strikes, lockouts, and other disruptions.
- Established procedures for resolving labor disputes promptly.
- Mechanisms for labor-management cooperation on productivity, quality, safety, and health.
- Compliance with all applicable state laws and regulations.

Impact

The bill is expected to affect:
- State Agencies: They will need to assess and potentially implement PLAs for applicable construction projects.
- Contractors and Subcontractors: All parties involved in state construction projects may be required to engage in PLAs, which could alter their operational practices and labor relations.
- Labor Organizations: The bill may enhance the role of labor organizations in state construction projects, promoting collaboration and reducing conflicts.

Procedural Aspects

The bill was introduced on January 30, 2025, and has been referred to the Commerce committee for further consideration. The timeline for subsequent actions or votes is not specified in the current status.

In summary, HF 185 seeks to improve the management and execution of state construction projects through the strategic use of project labor agreements, aiming for better outcomes in terms of cost, safety, and efficiency.