Explanation
On September 21, 2020, City Council passed Ordinance 1802-2020, creating a new chapter of the Columbus City Codes, Chapter 377, Wage Theft Prevention and Enforcement. Chapter 377 sets forth various provisions designed to ensure that entities who commit wage theft or payroll fraud do not do business with, or otherwise benefit from, contracts with the City of Columbus. On January 25, 2021, City Council passed Ordinance 0190-2021, amending Division (d) of Section 377.02 to allow additional time for the initial members of the Wage Theft Prevention and Enforcement Commission to be appointed and seated. Ordinance 0190-2021 also amended Section 377.12 to make clear that tax increment financing agreements which pledge service payments for the repayment of bonds or other financing will not be subject to termination based upon a violation of Chapter 377 of the Columbus City Codes.
This Ordinance further amends Chapter 377 to allow the Wage Theft Prevention Commission to issue a waiver to covered entity that has an adverse determination in certain circumstances. City Departments can now request a waiver on behalf of a covered entity with an adverse determination. This Ordinance also clarifies that Chapter 377 does not apply to past contracts or financial incentive, nor to any amendments to previously executed financial incentive agreements that do not expand the financial incentive provided. It clarifies actions of the Wage Theft Prevention Commission and staff. It also exempts goods contracts from independent contractor reporting requirements.
FISCAL IMPACT: No funding is required for this legislation.
Emergency Justification: Emergency action is requested to ensure that amendments to Chapter 377, pertaining to the enhancement of the abilities of the Wage Theft Prevention Commission and clarification of language related to covered entities, is in effect as soon as possible.
Title
To amend various sections of Chapter 377 of the Columbus City Codes to enh...
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