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H 2082

An Act relative to contractor accountability

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mark Cusack

Bill H 2082 establishes a commission to enhance contractor accountability in Massachusetts, ensuring better protections for workers and new liabilities for employers.

Hearing rescheduled to 11/20/2025 from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM in B-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time
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Bill Summary · H 2082

Summary of Bill H 2082: An Act Relative to Contractor Accountability

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 2082 aims to enhance accountability in the contracting and subcontracting practices within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The primary focus is to investigate and address concerns regarding workplace law violations and abuses related to labor and services provided by contractors and subcontractors.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of a Special Commission: The bill proposes the formation of a special commission tasked with studying accountability in contracting practices.
  • Scope of Investigation: The commission will explore how individuals and entities that utilize contractors and subcontractors can be held liable for violations of workplace laws, particularly concerning:
    • Massachusetts wage laws (Chapter 149, Sections 148, 148A, 148B, 152A, 159C)
    • Other relevant labor laws (Chapter 151, Sections 1, 1A, 15, 19; Chapter 140, Sections 46A-46R)
  • Focus on Labor-Intensive Industries: The commission will investigate various structures used in industries such as:
    • Retail
    • Construction
    • Building services
    • Hospitality
    • Ports
    • Health care
  • Composition of the Commission: The commission will consist of 12 members, including:
    • At least 4 representatives from unions and community-based organizations that serve workers in contracting-heavy industries.
    • One of these representatives will be appointed as the chair by the Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development.

Reporting Requirements

The commission is required to report its findings and recommendations, including any necessary legislative drafts, by December 31, 2026. This report will be submitted to the clerks of the Senate and House of Representatives, who will forward it to the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development and the House and Senate Committees on Ways and Means.

Affected Parties

  • Workers: Employees in industries heavily reliant on contracting and subcontracting may benefit from increased protections and accountability measures.
  • Contractors and Subcontractors: Entities involved in providing labor and services may face new regulations and accountability standards.
  • Employers: Businesses that utilize contractors may be subject to new liabilities and responsibilities regarding workplace law compliance.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Hearing Rescheduled: The initial hearing was rescheduled to November 20, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
  • Committee Referral: The bill was referred to the Committee on Labor and Workforce Development on the same day it was introduced.

Related Legislation

  • House Docket No. 3100: This bill replaces a similar matter filed in the previous session (House No. 1846 of 2023-2024).

This summary provides an overview of Bill H 2082, outlining its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on various stakeholders within Massachusetts.

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

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