Sec. 1. 26 MRSA §1316 is enacted to read:

§1316.__Employer responsibilities

1. Employer criteria.__Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, an employer of a laborer, worker or mechanic on a project constructing, altering, repairing, furnishing or equipping state buildings or public works, including state highways, must:

A.__Possess a state and federal tax identification number;

B.__Be bonded;

C.__Carry liability insurance;

D.__Follow the requirements for unemployment compensation under chapter 13; and

E.__Follow the requirements for workers' compensation under to Title 39-A.

2. Health care benefits.__An employer under subsection 1 must provide health care coverage to employees and their families. The health care coverage must be either Dirigo Health Insurance pursuant to Title 24-A, chapter 87 or the equivalent of the health care coverage the State provides to state employees.

3. Safety training.__An employer under subsection 1 must provide to employees training in construction industry safety and health as provided by the United States Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

4. Apprenticeship program.__An employer under subsection 1 must participate in an apprenticeship program or equivalent training program to train construction workers that is recognized by the State.

SUMMARY

This bill requires an employer on a state project to possess a federal and state tax identification number, be bonded, carry liability insurance and follow state requirements for unemployment and workers' compensation insurance. The employer must provide its employees health insurance that is Dirigo Health