Senator Dodd’s Public Works Bill Approved by Legislature

Monday, July 2, 2018

SACRAMENTO – A bill from Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, that improves counties’ ability to plan and deliver infrastructure projects was approved by the Legislature Monday and goes to Gov. Jerry Brown for a signature.

“This is a common-sense measure that grants counties the flexibility they need to build projects in the most efficient manner possible, translating into savings for local government and taxpayers alike,” Senator Dodd said. “It will ensure more timely completion at a higher quality, sparing the public any cost overruns.”

Senate Bill 914 adds language to the Local Agency Public Construction Act, which governs the awarding of public works projects. It expands authority to use the construction manager at-risk process, requiring the construction manager to deliver projects within the agreed upon price, resulting in better designed and more cost-effective projects.

The bill cleared both houses unanimously with a final vote in the Senate on Monday. The governor has 12 days from the time he receives the bill to sign it. It was supported by the California State Association of Counties and numerous construction trade groups.

“I’m very glad to see counties receiving more tools to go out and generate the best projects for taxpayers at the best price,” Sonoma County Supervisor David Rabbitt said. “Thank you to Senator Dodd for taking steps to support local government once again.”

###

Senator Bill Dodd represents California’s 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Sonoma, Solano, Yolo, Sacramento, and Contra Costa counties. You can learn more about Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.