AI Summary
- 30 states plus DC maintain active prevailing wage laws for public construction projects.
- Federal Davis-Bacon Act covers all federally funded construction projects in every state, regardless of state law.
- Michigan restored its prevailing wage law in 2024 after a 2018 repeal — the first state to reinstate a repealed law.
- Project thresholds range from $0 (all public projects) in some states to $250,000+ in others.
Key Takeaways
- Check BOTH state and federal requirements — a project may be subject to one or both.
- Certified payroll (WH-347) is required on all Davis-Bacon projects and most state prevailing wage projects.
- Penalties for non-compliance include back wages, fines, debarment, and criminal prosecution.
- Several states repealed their laws in 2015-2017, but federal Davis-Bacon still applies to federal projects in those states.
How Prevailing Wage Works
Federal Davis-Bacon
Applies to all federally funded construction projects over $2,000 in every state. DOL determines prevailing rates by area.
State Laws
30 states have their own prevailing wage requirements for state/locally funded public works, often with different thresholds and rates.
Compliance
Contractors must pay the posted rate for each trade classification, submit certified payroll weekly, and maintain records for 3+ years.
State Directory
51 states1–12 of 51