Davis-Bacon Repeal Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Burlison, Eric [R-MO-7]
- Committees
- Education and Workforce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 30, 2026
Bottom line
This bill eliminates the federal requirement for contractors on public works projects to pay prevailing wages, a move proponents argue will reduce costs and opponents contend will depress wages and worker protections.
What it actually does
This bill repeals the Davis-Bacon Act, which currently requires contractors and subcontractors on federally funded construction projects to pay their laborers and mechanics no less than the local prevailing wages and fringe benefits. The repeal would eliminate this federal mandate, allowing wages on such projects to be determined by market forces rather than government-mandated rates. The changes would apply to new contracts initiated 30 days after enactment, while existing contracts and outstanding bids would be grandfathered.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that the Davis-Bacon Act inflates construction costs for taxpayers, creates unnecessary bureaucracy, and hinders competition by artificially raising labor expenses. Repealing it would lead to significant savings on federal projects, foster greater efficiency, and allow market forces to determine wages, ultimately benefiting taxpayers and creating more job opportunities by reducing barriers for contractors.
Opponents contend
Opponents contend that repealing the Davis-Bacon Act would drive down wages for construction workers, undermine local labor standards, and lead to a race to the bottom in terms of worker compensation and benefits. They argue it would disadvantage skilled workers, reduce the quality of construction by making federal jobs less attractive, and harm local economies by removing a floor for fair wages on public projects.
The bill itself is exceptionally short and easy to read, but its implications are far-reaching and require significant background knowledge to fully understand.
Section 2(a)
Repeal of Davis-Bacon Wage Requirements
This section directly repeals Subchapter IV of chapter 31 of title 40, United States Code, which contains the core provisions of the Davis-Bacon Act. The repeal eliminates the federal requirement that contractors and subcontractors on federally funded construction projects pay their laborers and mechanics no less than the local prevailing wages and fringe benefits, effectively removing the federal government's role in setting a wage floor for these projects.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this repeal will reduce the cost of federal construction projects, allowing taxpayer dollars to go further and potentially fund more infrastructure. They believe it will foster greater competition among contractors and reduce administrative burdens associated with wage determinations, leading to a more efficient market.
Critics contend
Opponents argue that repealing prevailing wage requirements will lead to a decline in wages and living standards for construction workers, making federal jobs less attractive to skilled labor. They contend it could also lead to lower quality work as contractors cut corners to compete solely on price, potentially compromising project integrity.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the goal of reducing federal spending on construction projects and promoting market efficiency against concerns about maintaining fair wages, labor standards for construction workers, and ensuring quality workmanship on public infrastructure.