The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) announced this week that the requirement for public works contractors and subcontractors to submit certified payroll records (CPRs) electronically using the DIR’s electronic certified payroll reporting (eCPR) system will resume on August 1, 2016.

Under California’s new Public Works Registration Program, contractors and subcontractors on most public works projects are now required to furnish CPRs to the California Labor Commissioner, using the DIR's eCPR system. The requirement to furnish CPRs electronically became effective on January 1, 2016 for all ongoing public work projects.  Shortly after this effective date, the DIR temporarily stayed the requirement to use the eCPR system in response to the numerous inquiries DIR received regarding the difficulty that many contractors and subcontractors were having with the eCPR system. Since that time the DIR engaged in outreach, education, and upgrades to the eCPR system in an effort to improve the system.

According to the DIR, the new enhancements to the DIR’s online system consist of a simplified online filing form. The DIR’s recent announcement also informs public works contractors that the requirements for uploading payroll records via XML remain unchanged, and new User Guides and video tutorials with detailed instructions will accompany the release of the enhanced system. In addition, the DIR’s frequently asked questions page includes answers to questions on how contractors can register and payroll reporting.