Rhode Island has one of the lowest thresholds in the nation at $1,000. The law covers all public construction, reconstruction, alteration, or repair of public buildings, roads, and other public works. The Department of Labor and Training sets prevailing wage rates.
Rhode Island has an active prevailing wage law (Rhode Island Prevailing Wage Law (R.I.G.L. Section 37-13-1 et seq.)). Administered by Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training. Certified payroll is required. Federal Davis-Bacon applies to all federal projects.
The federal Davis-Bacon Act applies to all federally funded or federally assisted construction contracts over $2,000 in Rhode Island. This includes projects funded by federal agencies, FHWA highway projects, HUD housing, and projects receiving federal grants.
Contractors face payment of back wages, debarment from public contracts, and civil penalties. Criminal penalties may apply for willful violations.