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SB 164

PREVAILING WAGE-FED PROJECT

104th Regular Session Introduced by Christopher Belt and 12 co-sponsors

Illinois bill mandates prevailing wage standards for workers on federally-funded construction projects, requiring higher pay but potentially increasing project costs.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Bill Summary · SB 164

Legislative bill overview

SB 164 establishes prevailing wage requirements for workers on federally-funded construction and infrastructure projects in Illinois. The bill mandates that contractors and subcontractors pay workers wages consistent with prevailing wage standards on projects receiving federal funding, similar to existing federal Davis-Bacon Act requirements but with state-level enforcement and oversight.

Why is this important

Prevailing wage laws directly affect labor costs on major infrastructure projects and worker compensation in construction. This impacts project budgets, contractor competitiveness, worker earnings, and ultimately taxpayer costs for federally-funded improvements like roads, bridges, and public facilities across Illinois.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Critics argue prevailing wage requirements increase project costs, potentially reducing the number of projects that can be funded; supporters contend they ensure quality work and prevent wage suppression
  • Competitive impact: Smaller contractors may face higher labor costs, affecting their ability to bid competitively; larger firms with existing union relationships may have advantages
  • Enforcement mechanism: The bill's state-level oversight could create duplicative bureaucracy alongside existing federal Davis-Bacon enforcement, or clarify accountability gaps depending on implementation details

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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