SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5725

                    As of February 23, 1999

Title:  An act relating to bids on public works.

Brief Description:  Requiring identification of subcontractors in bids on public works.

Sponsors:  Senators Heavey, Hochstatter, Gardner, Winsley and McCaslin.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  State & Local Government:  3/1/99.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Staff:  Cathlin Donohue (786-7772)

Background:  Currently, subcontractors must be identified on all bids expected to exceed $100,000 that involve public works by the state, state agencies and municipalities, higher education institutions, and school districts.  General contractors must submit a list of subcontractors whose subcontract amount is more than 10 percent of the bid price either as part of the bid itself or within one hour after the published bid deadline.  Failure to submit a list renders a bid void.

Summary of Bill:  The threshold of $100,000 is raised to $1 million.  School districts are no longer subject to listing requirements.  Listing requirements are expanded to include all subcontractors who will perform heating, ventilation and air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical work directly for the general contractor if awarded the contract.  A bidder may also name itself to do the work.  Only one subcontractor for each work category may be identified, unless subcontractors vary with bid alternates.  If a bidder lists two or more subcontractors to do the same work, fails to submit a list of subcontractors as part of the bid, or fails to name itself to do the work, the bid is considered void.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.