Understanding the Roadway Excavation Quality Assurance Act

As the construction industry grows, it's essential to stay aware of the latest developments. The Governor of New York, Kathy Hochul, just recently enacted the Roadway Excavation Quality Assurance Act.

This legislation will cause a notable impact on contractors and their businesses; making it important that everyone in the construction industry understands the implications of this act and how it applies to their operations.

Legislation Overview

The Roadway Excavation Quality Assurance Act states that if an employee is working on a utility project that requires a permit to excavate, open or use a street, the company contractors and subcontractors are required to pay prevailing wages.

If a permit is required to excavate, open or use a street:

• Work underneath said street as well as any repairs or temporary clean-ups are covered.
• Work on, in or under adjacent curbs, sidewalks, shoulders or right of ways to said street are covered.
• Utility work covered by this act includes electric, gas, water, steam, sewer, fuel, geothermal and telephone/telegraph.

If you're unsure of what wage rates are implemented in your specific location and field of utility, contact a Bureau of Public Work District Office near you.

Click here to review this act in its entirety and contact us for more risk management advice and solutions.