South Atlantic Prevailing Wage Determinations (PWDs) as of May 2008

In the previous issue, we focused on Prevailing Wage Determinations (PWDs) for several Mid-Atlantic states. Here are some helpful hints for PWD submissions for some South Atlantic states:

Virginia uses a form that can be mailed or faxed. Current turnaround is 2 business days. During H2B processing season, it may take up to 3 weeks to receive the determination. It is imperative to include job location, duties, and minimum requirements that directly affect the wage. The Virginia DOL stresses the need for clear descriptions, and it is better to spell out technical items and terms.

West Virginia prefers that you send your fax to the attention of the PWD Coordinator for the ALC Unit to the number on the form. The current processing time is about 5 business days, but can typically take up to 2 weeks. West Virginia will provide a tracking number for the case, which is helpful for all future correspondence. The West Virginia DOL stresses that employers should send cover sheets with "reply to" information to address all questions and include an OES code under item #4. Attachments may be used, if necessary.

North Carolina's current processing time is up to 14 business days, depending on their workflow, although they attempt to complete determinations within 10 business days. Use the fax form and make sure all education and degree requirements are specified. Do provide specific number of years, not ranges. Also include a complete job description with basic duties, as well as an SOC code. Helpful tip: if the company has a previous determination for that position, you may include it as a reference item with your fax submission.

South Carolina requests that you complete their entire form and be as specific and clear as possible. You may use attachments. Although the website states that there is a 3 to 4 week turnaround, requests are normally returned within 10 business days. Use the fax form and send it to the attention of R. Bryson, PW Analyst.

Georgia's standard turnaround is 2 to 3 weeks, and they are currently processing orders within 10 business days. You may fax or email the form to the attention of Y. Little. Full job descriptions must start on the form, but may continue on an attachment if they are longer than the allotted space. You can challenge the determination, and the DOL will allow you to use a published survey to dispute the determination as long as it meets specific criteria.

As always, we believe it is best to fill out forms as completely as possible. The more complete your form is, the better off you’ll be!