Prevailing wage in Illinois is the hourly rate of pay, fringe benefits, and overtime compensation established by the Illinois Department of Labor for workers employed on public works projects. These rates are based on prevailing wages and benefits paid to workers in the same trade or occupation within the locality where the construction project is located.
The Illinois Department of Labor conducts surveys and collects wage data from contractors, labor organizations, and other relevant sources to determine prevailing wage rates for different job classifications in each county or geographic area of the state. These rates are updated periodically to reflect changes in local wage conditions.
Prevailing wage requirements apply to various types of public works projects funded in whole or in part by public funds, including construction, renovation, repair, and maintenance of public buildings, highways, bridges, schools, and other infrastructure projects. Both state and local government entities are subject to prevailing wage laws in Illinois.
Prevailing wage laws in Illinois cover a wide range of trades and occupations involved in construction projects, including carpenters, electricians, plumbers, laborers, and more. Each trade or occupation has its prevailing wage rate based on local wage conditions and industry standards.
Contractors, subcontractors, and employers engaged in public works projects in Illinois are required to pay workers at least the prevailing wage rates specified for their respective job classifications. Failure to comply with prevailing wage laws may result in penalties, including fines, contract termination, and debarment from future public contracts.
In summary, prevailing wage in Illinois plays a crucial role in ensuring fair compensation practices and promoting economic stability in the construction industry. By understanding prevailing wage requirements and complying with them, contractors, subcontractors, and workers can protect worker rights on public works projects across the state.
