Funding trigger
Does Federal-aid highway funding trigger Davis-Bacon prevailing wage?
Yes. Construction on the federal-aid highway system is covered by Davis-Bacon prevailing wages by statute.
Short answer
Yes. Construction on the federal-aid highway system is covered by Davis-Bacon prevailing wages by statute.
How the requirement attaches
Title 23 of the U.S. Code requires that contractors and subcontractors on federal-aid highway projects pay laborers and mechanics no less than the Davis-Bacon prevailing wage rates for the locality.
Bid-file implication
Price to the highway wage determination incorporated into the state DOT contract and file certified payroll.
Guardrail
Screening only—not a coverage determination, tax opinion, or legal advice. Confirm the program-specific rules, exceptions, contract clauses, incorporated wage determination, and any separate federal, state, or local requirements before bidding, paying workers, filing payroll reports, or claiming a tax benefit.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Does Federal-aid highway funding require Davis-Bacon prevailing wages?
Yes. Construction on the federal-aid highway system is covered by Davis-Bacon prevailing wages by statute.
What happens when both federal and state prevailing wage apply?
Both regimes may impose requirements, but the answer is jurisdiction- and contract-specific. Compare the incorporated federal determination with the applicable state schedule, then verify classifications, fringes, overtime, apprentices, dates, exemptions, and contract clauses with the awarding agency or qualified adviser.
Do I still need certified payroll?
Covered DBRA contractors and subcontractors generally must submit weekly certified payroll showing the classifications and rates paid. Confirm the reporting clause in the specific contract.
Official sources