Understanding Project Wage Determinations: A Comprehensive Guide

Definition & Meaning

Project wage determinations refer to specific wage rates set for a particular project at the request of a contracting agency. These determinations are only valid for the project named in the request and expire 180 calendar days after issuance unless the agency requests an extension, which must be approved by the Wage and Hour Division. If the wage determination is not utilized within its effective period, it becomes void. To obtain a project wage determination, contracting agencies must submit a Standard Form 308 to the Wage and Hour Division.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a city planning to construct a new public library may request a project wage determination to ensure that all workers involved in the construction are paid according to the prevailing wage standards. If the city does not use the determination within 180 days, it will no longer be valid.

(Hypothetical example) A contracting agency may submit a request for a project wage determination for a new highway project, ensuring compliance with federal wage laws and protecting workers' rights.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Details
California Has specific state laws governing wage determinations for public works projects.
Texas May have different thresholds for wage determination requests compared to federal standards.
New York Imposes additional requirements for wage determinations on state-funded projects.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Prevailing Wage The standard wage paid to workers in a specific area for a particular type of work. Project wage determinations are specific to individual projects, while prevailing wage refers to general wage standards in an area.
Wage Determination A general classification of wage rates applicable to various projects. Project wage determinations are tailored to specific projects and have a limited validity period.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a contracting agency, ensure you submit a Standard Form 308 to request a project wage determination for your project. If you are a contractor or worker, verify that the project wage determination is in place before starting work. You can explore US Legal Forms for ready-to-use legal templates to assist with your project wage determination requests. If your situation is complex, consider seeking professional legal advice.

Quick facts

  • Validity: 180 calendar days from issuance.
  • Request Form: Standard Form 308.
  • Issued by: Wage and Hour Division.
  • Applicable to: Specific projects only.
  • Becomes void if not used within the effective period.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A project wage determination is a specific wage rate set for a project at the request of a contracting agency, valid for 180 days.