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HB 5275

AN ACT CONCERNING A CONTRACTOR'S RESPONSIBILITY FOR UNPAID WAGES ON A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Larry Butler and 15 co-sponsors

Connecticut bill makes general contractors financially liable for unpaid subcontractor wages, protecting construction workers from wage theft through supply chain accountability.

FILE NO. 91
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Bill Summary · HB 5275

Legislative bill overview

HB 5275 establishes contractor liability for unpaid wages owed by subcontractors on construction projects in Connecticut. The bill makes general contractors responsible for ensuring that all workers on their projects—including those employed by subcontractors—receive full payment for labor performed. This creates a "joint and several liability" framework where contractors cannot simply pass wage obligations down the supply chain without accountability.

Why is this important

Construction workers, particularly those employed by smaller subcontractors, frequently experience wage theft and delayed payments when companies go bankrupt or disappear. This bill protects vulnerable workers by creating a direct financial incentive for general contractors to vet their subcontractors and monitor payment practices. It also addresses broader labor market concerns about wage theft, which disproportionately affects lower-wage and immigrant workers in construction.

Potential points of contention

  • Contractor burden and costs: General contractors may argue this increases their administrative costs and legal liability for circumstances beyond their direct control, potentially raising construction project costs
  • Scope of responsibility: Questions exist about how far up the chain liability extends (multiple tiers of subcontractors) and what constitutes adequate contractor oversight
  • Competitive disadvantage: Connecticut contractors could face higher compliance costs than out-of-state competitors, potentially affecting project bidding and job availability

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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