July 20, 2026

Governor Gavin Newsom has signed industry-sponsored SB 33 (Cortese) into law, permanently preserving California's public works change order and claims resolution process. Read the full bill text on the California Legislature's website using the link above.

SB 33 makes permanent the requirement that public agencies review contractor claims in a timely manner, promptly pay undisputed amounts, and resolve disputes before they escalate into costly litigation. By removing the prior sunset on these provisions, the law gives contractors performing public works projects long-term certainty that they'll be paid fairly and promptly for additional work directed by a public agency.

We extend our thanks to Governor Newsom for signing SB 33 into law, and to Senator Dave Cortese for authoring and championing the bill.

Thank you as well to the contractors, association leaders, and industry partners who supported this effort — especially everyone who responded to our grassroots action alert and contacted Governor Newsom in support of SB 33. Your advocacy helped make this legislative win possible.

Questions about how SB 33 affects your public works contracts? Contact us at info@alliedtrades.org or 510-428-9486.