North Summit News

The House Commerce and Labor Committee has passed House Bill 203, a legislation that will require owners of private sector construction projects to pay prime contractors within 30 days. The bill received strong bipartisan support from the committee, much to the satisfaction of its sponsors, State Reps. Bill Roemer and Bride Rose Sweeney.

Currently, the "prompt pay" requirement is only applicable to public sector owners such as state and local governments. However, House Bill 203 aims to address the imbalance in the private sector by ensuring that all parties involved in a construction project are paid in a timely manner.

State Rep. Bill Roemer expressed his belief in the bill's positive impact on Ohio's economy, stating, "House Bill 203 is a pro-business and pro-worker bill that ensures a level playing field for hardworking Ohioans and will keep construction projects moving in a timely fashion." He also noted that the legislation would bring Ohio in line with the 29 other states that already have similar prompt pay laws in place.

State Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney emphasized the difficulties faced by Ohio contractors who often have to wait for extended periods to receive payment. She stated, "Some Ohio contractors have to wait 60, 90, or even 150 days to receive payment after they finish a construction project. Hardworking Ohioans shouldn't have to dip into their personal savings or retirement funds just to do their job." Sweeney believes that House Bill 203 will help ensure that workers are paid on time and that construction projects can progress smoothly in the Buckeye State.

With the House Commerce and Labor Committee's approval, House Bill 203 now awaits a vote on the House floor. If passed, the legislation will bring much-needed reforms to the private sector construction industry in Ohio, benefiting both contractors and workers alike.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/bill-roemer/news/house-committee-passes-prompt-pay-legislation-117098