CO HB1278

Requires contractors on state-funded public projects exceeding $500,000 that receive no federal funding to employ apprentices for at least 25% of workers in apprenticeable occupations.

Apprentices must be registered with apprenticeship programs recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship, or a federally recognized state apprenticeship agency.

Government agencies may only accept bids or proposals for eligible public projects if they demonstrate the contractor will meet the 25% apprentice workforce requirement.

Contractors must submit affidavits upon project completion documenting either compliance with apprenticeship requirements or good faith efforts to comply, with specific details on apprentice names and programs.

Agencies may retain unallocated portions of withheld contract payments as liquidated damages if contractors fail to submit affidavits or cannot demonstrate compliance or good faith efforts.