A key discussion point emerged during the recent government meeting in Colorado regarding the implementation of the proposed rulemaking for SB23-292, focusing on the importance of prevailing wage policies. Officials emphasized that requiring a prevailing wage and benefits package for workers is crucial to ensure local employment and reduce the reliance on out-of-state labor.

One speaker highlighted the challenges of determining the percentage of Colorado workers versus imported labor, but stressed that adhering to prevailing wage standards can mitigate these issues. "Numerous studies show that that's one of the greatest benefits of prevailing wage policies," they stated, noting that such requirements help maintain competitive wages in the local economy. This approach discourages the importation of workers from regions with lower living costs, as it eliminates the economic advantage of hiring cheaper labor.

The discussion also touched on the significance of registered apprenticeship programs. Officials pointed out that developers need accurate estimates of workforce availability, which can be achieved by consulting contractors involved in the projects. The Colorado apprenticeship directory was mentioned as a valuable resource, listing all registered programs by trade, including electricians and heavy equipment operators. This directory not only aids in identifying available apprenticeships but also connects contractors to these programs.

As the meeting concluded, there was a sense of optimism about collaborating with various stakeholders to refine these policies. The focus on prevailing wages and apprenticeship utilization is expected to play a vital role in shaping Colorado's workforce landscape in the coming years.