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Davis-Bacon Act

The Davis-Bacon Act is a federal law that requires contractors on federally funded construction contracts over $2,000 to pay workers at least the local prevailing wages and fringe benefits set by the US Department of Labor.

County projects paid partly with federal money (for example, many road, bridge, water and disaster-recovery projects) often carry Davis-Bacon requirements, even in states without their own prevailing wage law.

What it means for your bid

  • The bid documents include a wage determination listing minimum rates by trade.
  • You must pay at least those rates, post notices at the site and submit weekly certified payrolls.
  • Subcontractors must comply too.

Missing these requirements can mean withheld payments and penalties, so read the federal provisions in the bid package carefully.

Sources

Last reviewed Oct 30, 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. Laws and thresholds change; check the current statute and the bid documents.