This calculator helps determine the appropriate wage determination dates for federal and state construction projects. Understanding these dates is crucial for compliance with prevailing wage requirements.
Federal Wage Determination: Based on the bid opening date, this calculates the wage determination that was in effect 10 days prior to bid opening.
State Wage Determination: Based on the advertisement/solicitation date, this determines which state wage determination period applies, following the biannual schedule (February 22 and August 22 effective dates).
Federal Wage Determinations
Federal wage determinations establish the minimum wages, fringe benefits, and work conditions that must be paid to workers on federally funded projects. These rates are set by the U.S. Department of Labor based on the prevailing wages for specific labor classifications in defined geographic areas.
For California public works projects, workers must be paid the prevailing wage as determined by the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). These rates vary by craft, classification, and project location and are typically aligned with collective bargaining agreements.
Prevailing wages refer to the minimum hourly wages, including fringe benefits, that contractors and subcontractors must pay to workers on federally funded or state-funded public works projects. These wages are determined by government agencies, often based on local wage rates for similar work in a given region.
What is the Davis-Bacon Act?
A federal law enacted in 1931, established prevailing wage requirements for federal construction projects. Many states have their own prevailing wage laws—commonly known as Little Davis-Bacon Acts—that apply similar standards to state and local projects.
Why Are Prevailing Wages Important?
Protects Workers – Ensures fair pay and benefits, preventing underpayment and exploitation.
Promotes Skilled Labor – Encourages a high-quality workforce by ensuring competitive wages.
Prevents Unfair Competition – Levels the playing field by preventing bids based solely on low labor costs.
Boosts Local Economies – Higher wages increase consumer spending and economic stability in local communities.
Ensures Compliance – Contractors who fail to follow prevailing wage laws may face penalties, legal action, or contract termination.
What date locks in the federal wage determination?
The federal wage determination in effect 10 calendar days before the Bid Opening Date.
What date locks in the California state wage determination?
The determination in effect on the project's First Advertisement Date.
When do California state wage determinations take effect?
New determinations are issued on Feb 22 and Aug 22, effective 10 calendar days later.
What if the Ad Date is before March 3?
Use the previous August 22 determination (since Feb 22 has not taken effect yet).
Do weekends or leap years affect the 10-day rule?
No. It uses calendar days, not business days.
Is the pre-bid meeting date used for wage lock-in?
No. Use Bid Opening Date for federal and Ad Date for state wage determinations.
Helpful Resources
Federal and State Guidelines
Local Assistance Procedures Manual – Exhibit 12-GView PDF