HB 126: PUBLIC CONSTRUCTION PREVAILING WAGE RATES Number 507 REP. GAIL PHILLIPS, PRIME SPONSOR OF SSHB 126, read the sponsor statement for the record. (This statement is on file in the committee room until the end of session.) Number 545 BILL WARD, PART OWNER, WARD LANDSCAPING SERVICE, testified in support of HB 126. Mr. Ward raised the concern of why the 24 month duration was used, as many contracts are for longer than that. He proposed that the bill apply to the duration of the contract or somehow put in language that would protect the contractor. Number 588 JOHN ABSHIRE, DEPUTY COMMISSIONER, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, testified in support of this bill. Mr. Abshire stated that the department sees this bill as relieving any financial hardship contractors bear by prevailing wages that are effective during the term of the contract. MR. ABSHIRE noted that one reason for the 24 month provision is that there is great potential that skilled craftsman will leave the job to go to another job that pays more money. This will help keep skilled people working on public projects. Number 603 CHAIRMAN HUDSON asked the commissioner about recording requirements for public contracts is $2,000. Mr. Hudson asked if that figure isn't low. MR. ABSHIRE explained that the $2,000 figure is patterned after the Davis Bacon Act. TAPE 93-21, SIDE A Number 000 REP. GREEN moved for passage of HB 126 with individual recommendations and a zero fiscal note. No objections were heard, it was so ordered.