The Missouri prevailing wage law requires that all workers working on public works projects be paid the proper prevailing wage rate.  Prevailing wage rates are determined by actual hours worked, for a particular occupational title (classification/trade) in each individual county throughout the state.

Guidelines for Workers:

1. You must be paid at least the correct prevailing wage rate for the type of work performed, regardless of your skill level.

2. Prevailing wage rates must be posted on the project for you to see.

3. You must be paid the total prevailing wage for all hours worked on the project site.  The total prevailing wage rate equals the basic hourly rate plus fringe benefits.

4. Your employer may take credit for the hourly cost of fringe benefits provided to you, such as health insurance, pension plans, vacation and training programs.

5. If your employer does not offer fringe benefits, you should receive the full fringe benefit amount in cash or on your paycheck.

6. Pay for travel, mileage, meals or other expenses are not fringe benefits.  They cannot be considered part of the prevailing wage rate.

7. Your employer cannot deduct for loss, theft, debts, damage, etc.  without your permission.

8. An apprentice may work at less than the prevailing wage rate.  They must be individually registered with the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training (BAT).  They may not be employed on the project over the allowed ration in the BAT standards.

9. Make sure you receive the proper prevailing wage rate for the work you perform.  Fill out your time cards daily.  The time cards should include the number of hours worked in each occupational classification, the type of duties performed or equipment operated, and the time you started and ended work.  Keep a personal time record, also.

10. If you have not been paid the correct wages, you have the right to sue for double the amount owed you plus your attorney's fees.