CA AB2426

Establishes up to 5-percent bid preference for state agencies awarding public works contracts to bidders utilizing the Helmets to Hardhats program, which helps returning veterans enter the construction industry.

Scales bid preference from 1-percent to 5-percent based on percentage of California veteran employees on the project, ranging from 3% to 16% or above of the workforce.

Requires bidders and all listed subcontractors to submit certified statements confirming qualification for the bid preference, with civil penalties of $2,500 to $25,000 for knowingly providing false information.

Mandates bidders utilizing the preference maintain Helmets to Hardhats participation for at least one year following contract acceptance and must have used the program during the 12 months preceding bid submission.

Allows winning bidders 14 days to substitute a new subcontractor if the original subcontractor fails to establish entitlement to the preference, with the original subcontractor liable for reasonable cost increases.