VA HB1046

Establishes new requirements for public works construction contracts initiated after July 1, 2027, requiring contractors and subcontractors to complete OSHA safety training and demonstrate no more than one labor law violation exceeding $25,000 in the past three years.

Restricts state construction contracts over $5 million from using more than one independent contractor unless the state public body provides written authorization, requiring contractors to show good faith efforts to directly hire employees first.

Requires local public bodies to receive written notification detailing independent contractors hired on construction contracts exceeding $5 million, including compliance documentation from prime contractors.

Mandates that parties hiring independent contractors provide written notice informing workers of their tax obligations, lack of eligibility for employment protections, and instructions for filing misclassification complaints with the Department of Labor and Industry.

Directs the Secretary of Labor to conduct an 18-month evaluation starting July 1, 2026, on the feasibility of requiring apprentice hiring on public works contracts, with a report due to the General Assembly by November 1, 2027.