Contractors who bid and work on public works jobs should be focused on implementing a benefits strategy that will meet the requirements of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Government agencies including the Department of Labor have previously announced their intentions to scrutinize government contractors for compliance with prevailing wage law, as evidenced by daily headlines announcing companies being fined and debarred for violations.

It's possible that this same level of scrutiny will apply to compliance with healthcare reform. And since ACA is the law, companies subject to its provisions may be required to prove they are in compliance before bidding on government contracts.