HB 526 Summary

• Requires contractors on public works projects and construction projects for businesses receiving state or local tax incentive credits, abatements, or preferences to employ at least 90 percent of workers from Alabama residents who have lived in the state for two years, if project cost exceeds $200,000.

• Mandates contractors notify job sites, local newspapers, building and trade unions, local employment offices, and designated officials about project job opportunities to comply with resident worker requirements.

• Allows use of non-resident workers only if qualified Alabama resident workers are unavailable after notifying local unions, mayors, county judges of probate, and the Governor.

• Establishes criminal penalties of Class C misdemeanor for violations, with each day of non-compliant employment constituting a separate offense, and creates civil cause of action allowing workers to recover lost wages and attorney's fees if wrongfully denied employment.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and gubernatorial approval.