Rep. Mia Gregerson’s (D-SeaTac) bill, HB 1202, is scheduled for a hearing in the House Innovation, Technology & Economic Development Committee. The bill will make changes to state agencies and educational institutions in the hiring of minority and women-owned businesses.

Additionally, the bill increases the small works roster limits for local governments and state agencies from $300,000 to $500,000. The proposal also allows local governments to waive retainage requirements and would have first priority for the recovery of funds in the case of a default by the contractor.

The bill increases the project cost limit for using the limited public works projects process from $35,000 to $150,000.

The bill also changes the statue to require local governments to equitably distribute opportunities for limited public works projects among contractors – that means a city may not favor certain contractors over others on the same roster that perform similar services.

The Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC) is directed to work with the department of enterprise services to provide guidance to local municipal governments on the changes that would occur with the passage of this bill.

The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee (JLARC) is required to report to the governor and appropriate committees by December 1, 2020 on the implementation of the requirements of this bill.

AWC supports increasing the project limits, but we would appreciate feedback from local governments on impacts this legislation. Send comments to Andrew Pittelkau.

Dates to remember

HB 1202 will be heard on Wednesday, January 23 in the House Innovation, Technology & Economic Development Committee at 9 am.