NJDOL Halts Construction at Public Schools, Issues Stop-Work Order to East Brunswick Contractor

CCL Construction L.L.C. Faces Violations Including Failure to Pay Prevailing Wage and Unregistered Work

EAST BRUNSWICK, N.J. – The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has issued a company-wide stop-work order to CCL Construction L.L.C., an East Brunswick-based contractor. The order, effective July 23, 2024, affects ongoing public works projects at Jessie F. George School in Washington Township and Bridgewater-Raritan High School in Bridgewater.

The NJDOL's Division of Wage and Hour Compliance identified multiple violations by CCL Construction, including failure to pay prevailing wages, working while unregistered or with a suspended state, obstructing the investigation, and issues with unpaid or late wages. Due to the severity and scope of these violations, the stop-work order extends to all current and future projects involving the contractor, impacting 9-11 workers.

This action marks the third time the NJDOL has issued a company-wide stop-work order since expanding these enforcement powers in July 2019. The order serves as a measure to protect workers and ensure compliance with state laws and regulations. Employers may appeal the order, with NJDOL required to schedule a hearing within seven days.

NJDOL continues to monitor compliance and can impose civil penalties of $5,000 per day for any work conducted in violation of the stop-work order. The order may be lifted upon resolution of outstanding issues, including payment of back wages and penalties.

In addition to enforcement actions, NJDOL and partners at the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and the New Jersey Department of Education have issued reminders to local governments and boards of education about their responsibilities under the New Jersey Prevailing Wage Act. Agencies are urged to consult NJDOL's list of registered public works contractors before hiring, to prevent delays and extra costs associated with non-compliance.

For further information on worker rights and protections, visit myworkrights.nj.gov.