SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1364

BYHouse Committee on Commerce & Labor (originally sponsored by Representatives Sayan, Wang, Patrick, R. King, Winsley, Baugher, Vekich, Walker, Cooper and Todd)

Requiring that contractors bidding on public works projects be registered in the state.

House Committe on Commerce & Labor

Senate Committee on Economic Development & Labor

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 18, 1988; February 23, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended.

      Signed by Senators Lee, Chairman; Anderson, Vice Chairman; Cantu, Conner, Deccio, McMullen, Saling, Smitherman, Warnke, West.

Senate Staff:Dave Cheal (786-7576)

                  February 24, 1988

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & LABOR, FEBRUARY 23, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The Washington contractors registration statute specifically prohibits unregistered contractors from submitting bids to do work.  Washington public works law also specifically prohibits agencies of the state and its political subdivisions from executing public works contracts with contractors who are not registered contractors in the state.  However, the public works law does not specify whether these agencies may accept bids from unregistered contractors.

SUMMARY:

Agencies of the state and its political subdivisions may not consider or accept bids on public works contracts from contractors who are not registered or licensed as required by the state of Washington.  An exemption for certain contractors on highway projects is provided.

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED SENATE AMENDMENT:

Bidders who submit sworn statements that they are eligible for registration, will promptly register if awarded the contract and have never conducted contracting activities while unregistered, are allowed to bid on public works projects.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested January 21, 1988

Senate Committee - Testified: Robert Dilger, Washington State Building and Construction Trades Council (for); Duke Schaub, AGC (for); Nate Jackson (against)