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SB 197

AN ACT FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - DIVISION OF ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION REAPPROPRIATION.

2025 Regular Session

Bill SB 197 mandates Project Labor Agreements for school construction contracts, ensuring fair wages and stable labor relations, benefiting workers and school districts.

Notification that SB197 is now Act 80
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Bill Summary · SB 197

Summary of Bill SB 197

Title: An Act to Amend Title 14 and Title 29 of the Delaware Code Relating to Project Labor Agreements for School Public Works Contracts
Status: Introduced and Assigned to Labor Committee in Senate
Introduced: June 26, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 197 aims to amend existing laws in Title 14 and Title 29 of the Delaware Code to establish guidelines and regulations regarding Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) specifically for public works contracts related to school construction and renovation projects. The intent of the bill is to promote efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and labor harmony in the execution of these public works projects.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

  1. Definition of Project Labor Agreements:

    • The bill defines PLAs as pre-hire collective bargaining agreements that establish the terms and conditions of employment for laborers and mechanics on public works projects.

  2. Applicability:

    • PLAs would be required for all school public works contracts exceeding a specified monetary threshold (to be determined in the bill).

  3. Requirements for Contractors:

    • Contractors bidding on school public works projects must agree to adhere to the terms outlined in the PLA, which may include wage rates, working conditions, and dispute resolution processes.

  4. Labor Relations:

    • The bill seeks to ensure that PLAs promote stable labor relations and minimize the potential for strikes or work stoppages during the duration of the project.

  5. Compliance and Enforcement:

    • Provisions for monitoring compliance with the PLA terms will be established, including penalties for non-compliance.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Contractors and Subcontractors: All entities involved in bidding for and executing school public works contracts will be required to comply with the new PLA regulations.
  • Labor Unions: Labor organizations representing workers in the construction industry will have a vested interest in the terms of the PLAs.
  • School Districts: School districts will need to adapt their procurement processes to align with the new requirements set forth by the bill.
  • Workers: Laborers and mechanics employed on school construction projects will benefit from the protections and standards established by the PLAs.

Procedural Aspects

  • Committee Assignment: The bill has been assigned to the Labor Committee in the Senate for further discussion and evaluation.
  • Next Steps: Following committee review, the bill will be subject to amendments and must pass through both chambers of the Delaware General Assembly before being sent to the Governor for approval.

Conclusion

Bill SB 197 represents a significant step toward standardizing labor agreements for school public works projects in Delaware. By establishing clear guidelines for Project Labor Agreements, the bill aims to enhance project efficiency and labor relations, ultimately benefiting the construction workforce and the school districts involved. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its developments and potential implications.

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

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