Florida General Contractor Practice Exam

Who is responsible for enforcing federal labor standards according to the Davis Bacon Act?

1. The Secretary of the Treasury

2. The Department of Labor

3. The State Labor Department

4. The Contractor

The correct answer is: The Department of Labor

The correct answer is the Department of Labor, as this federal agency is tasked with enforcing the labor standards established by the Davis Bacon Act. This act requires that contractors and subcontractors on federally funded or assisted construction projects pay their workers a minimum wage that reflects local prevailing wage rates. The Department of Labor ensures compliance with these wage requirements, monitors and investigates violations, and takes necessary enforcement actions when discrepancies are found. The Secretary of the Treasury primarily oversees financial matters related to the federal government and does not have a direct role in the enforcement of labor standards. The State Labor Department may have its own regulations and enforcement mechanisms, but it typically operates within state jurisdiction and not specifically under the Davis Bacon Act. The contractor, while responsible for complying with labor laws, does not have the authority to enforce federal standards; their role is to adhere to those standards during project execution.