Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Capital Budget Committee

HB 1754

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Adding building envelope to the list of building trades that a prime contractor must list for bids on public works.

Sponsors: Representatives Buys, Dunshee, Muri, Haler, Senn, Ormsby, Sullivan and Smith.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Adds a requirement that the building envelope subcontractor be identified as part of the bid for public works construction projects expected to cost over $1 million.

Hearing Date: 2/6/15

Staff: Steve Masse (786-7115).

Background:

Most public works construction projects are procured using an architect selected by the public body. The architect develops the plans and specifications that contractors bid on. The low responsive bidder is awarded the contract to perform the work described in the plans and specifications. Contractors that provide the bid are referred to as the prime contractor and they may subcontract portions of the work to other specialized contractors. Current state law requires that for projects expected to cost over $1 million the prime contractor identify subcontractors that will perform specialty work including mechanical and electrical systems.

Summary of Bill:

In addition to the current subcontractor identification requirements, the building envelope subcontractor must also be identified in the bid. An "envelope" is defined to be the elements of the building that separate the building’s interior from the building’s exterior. Furthermore, this conditioned space transfers heat, air, light, and sound.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.