RCAW legislative alert: What Washington roofing contractors need to know

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

RCAW sounds the alarm on proposed legislation impacting Washington roofing contractors 

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is raising awareness about two companion bills currently moving through the Washington State Legislature that could have serious consequences for roofing contractors across the state. 

House Bill 2191 and Senate Bill 6068 would expand wage and benefit liability within the construction industry. If passed these bills would make direct contractors and in some cases property owners jointly liable for unpaid wages and benefits owed to workers employed by subcontractors at any tier. 

In simple terms this means roofing contractors could be held financially responsible even when a subcontractor fails to properly pay their employees. 

For many contractors this represents a major shift in risk and responsibility. The proposed legislation increases legal and financial exposure for unpaid wages and benefits while adding stricter requirements for payroll compliance, recordkeeping and worker classification. It also creates additional administrative burdens that could drive up project costs and slow down job timelines. 

While limited exemptions may apply to some small residential projects the majority of commercial roofing work and larger residential projects would be affected. 

These bills are not law at this time but they are actively advancing which makes contractor involvement critical. RCAW Executive Director Amanda Fields encourages members to stay informed and engaged as the legislative session continues. RCAW is actively evaluating the impact of this legislation and advocating on behalf of Washington’s roofing industry to ensure lawmakers understand how expanded liability could affect local contractors workforce stability and overall project delivery. 

One important way contractors can make their voices heard is by participating in RCAW Olympia Hill Day on February 5 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event provides roofing professionals with the opportunity to speak directly with legislators and share real world insight into how proposed laws impact daily operations jobsite management and business sustainability. Contractors are encouraged to register online at www.rcaw.com and take an active role in protecting the future of the roofing industry in Washington. 

For more information contact Amanda Fields, executive director of the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington at director@rcaw.com.