Jun. 20, 2017
HARRISBURG – Today, the House approved legislative language with strong bipartisan support drafted by Reps. James R. Santora (R-Delaware) and Michael Driscoll (D-Philadelphia) to permit contractors to suspend their work if they are not paid per contract terms. The bill passed the House Commerce Committee with complete support two weeks ago.
“Without fair and prompt payment for their services and materials, contractors face undue financial hardship and loss of time that must be spent attempting to recover payment,” Santora said. “This bill would give customers greater incentive to remain respectful of the agreed payment schedule, rather than forcing contractors to finish jobs without compensation.”
Under the bill, contractors and subcontractors would be able to stop working on a project if payment is not received per contract guidelines, at least 60 days have passed since the end of the billing period and seven calendars days’ notice was given of their intent to suspend work.
Currently, suspension of work is not included in the payment dispute remedies available for contractors and subcontractors.
Language was added to the bill that would prevent the provisions of the legislation to be waived in a contract. Also, it would require a written explanation to be provided when payment is withheld because the customer is unhappy with the work or materials provided. Failure to comply would require payment to the contractor or subcontractor in full.
“I appreciate the additional language that Rep. David Maloney (R-Berks) added to the bill, as it would even more thoroughly protect contractors from non-payment. Because of those amendments, potential loopholes have already been eliminated,” Driscoll explained.
It now advances to the Senate for consideration.
Representative James R. Santora
163rd Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
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