Responsible Construction and Wage-Theft Ordinance
Santa Cruz County
Summary
Union workers packed the chamber saying wage theft — nearly $2.2 million in stolen wages on local public works, by one labor compliance agent's account — is forcing them to commute over the hill for a living wage. The Board voted 4-1 to have staff draft a ordinance requiring contractors on county-permitted projects to disclose wage judgments over $10,000, with a return by October.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 1
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed May 5, 2026.
Impact analysis
Could add a one-page disclosure to permit and bid processes; cited estimates include $3 billion in annual statewide lost tax revenue from wage theft.
Construction workers who've lost wages, honest contractors undercut by low-road bidders, and taxpayers funding public projects.
Small contractors could face new paperwork and scrutiny; Supervisor Koenig argued one interest group shouldn't draft county law.
Mentions & discussions (1)
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