DE HB435

Requires public entities to include community workforce agreements (CWAs) for public works projects estimated to cost $3 million or more using state funds.

Public entities must either directly negotiate CWAs with construction labor organizations or condition contract awards on contractors negotiating CWAs in good faith.

CWAs must include dispute resolution procedures, guarantees against strikes/lockouts, skilled labor sourcing, apprenticeship goals, and diversity targets for minorities, disadvantaged communities, and women.

Contractors bidding on CWA projects must register with the Department and provide annual employee rosters containing gender, race, address (if from disadvantaged community), and hours worked data.

Department must monitor CWAs and submit annual reports to Governor and General Assembly on effectiveness, including analysis of work performed by protected groups by trade craft; act takes effect January 1, 2023.