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HB 997

State Finance and Procurement - Prevailing Wage Rate - Calculation

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kris Valderrama

HB 997 revises Maryland's prevailing wage rate calculation methodology for public construction projects, affecting worker compensation and project costs.

Hearing 3/03 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 997

Legislative bill overview

HB 997 modifies how Maryland calculates prevailing wage rates for public construction projects. The bill adjusts the methodology used to determine the minimum wages that workers must be paid on state-funded or state-regulated construction contracts, affecting wage calculations across public procurement activities.

Why is this important

Prevailing wage laws directly impact labor costs on public projects, influencing project budgets, worker compensation, and contractor bidding. Changes to calculation methods can significantly affect both the construction industry's competitiveness and workers' earnings on publicly-funded infrastructure, making this a substantive policy issue despite its technical framing.

Potential points of contention

  • Labor vs. Business interests: Construction industry groups may argue revised calculations increase project costs and reduce competitiveness, while labor unions may contend changes inadequately protect worker earnings
  • Public budget impact: Modified wage calculations could increase costs for state infrastructure projects, affecting project timelines and overall fiscal planning
  • Definition disputes: The specific calculation methodology changes are not detailed in available information, but technical revisions to wage formulas often generate disagreement over whether adjustments are appropriate or constitute de facto wage cuts/increases

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

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