CT HB05275

Contractors become jointly and severally liable for unpaid wages owed to employees of subcontractors at any tier who perform work within the scope of a construction contract, effective October 1, 2026

Applies to private construction, renovation, and rehabilitation contracts entered into on or after October 1, 2026, but excludes public works contracts and most residential home improvement projects (except developments with more than 15 one- or two-family units)

Employees must provide contractors with at least 30 days' written notice describing the alleged wage violation before filing a civil action against the contractor

Contractors may include indemnification provisions in subcontracts for wage liability, but cannot include provisions that waive the contractor's liability or limit employees' right to bring legal action

Employees can recover twice the unpaid wages plus costs and attorney's fees, or the full amount if the employer demonstrates a good faith belief of legal compliance