WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 197

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 14 AND TITLE 29 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO PROJECT LABOR AGREEMENTS FOR SCHOOL PUBLIC WORKS CONTRACTS.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Ed Osienski and 3 co-sponsors

Delaware bill authorizes project labor agreements for school construction, requiring unionized workforces and prevailing wages on publicly-funded education building projects.

Introduced and Assigned to Labor Committee in Senate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 197

Legislative bill overview

SB 197 would amend Delaware law to allow or regulate the use of Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) for school construction and public works projects. PLAs are pre-negotiated labor contracts that typically require contractors to use union workers and follow union wage and benefit standards. The bill modifies Title 14 (Education) and Title 29 (Labor) to establish the framework for how these agreements can be used in school-related construction.

Why is this important

School construction projects represent significant public expenditures, and how labor is organized on these projects affects both project costs and worker compensation. PLAs can influence whether school districts pay prevailing wages, worker training investments, project timelines, and overall construction expenses—all ultimately affecting education budgets and taxpayer costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Opponents argue PLAs increase construction costs by requiring union wages; supporters argue they ensure quality work and prevent wage undercutting
  • Labor market access: Critics worry PLAs limit non-union contractor participation and reduce competition; proponents say they protect workers and ensure consistent standards
  • Project complexity: Questions about whether mandatory PLAs are appropriate for all school projects versus only large ones, and administrative burden on school districts

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

Sign in to ask a question.