Hoffman Pushes Pro-Labor Bills Aimed at Securing Higher Worker Wages

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, has introduced a pair of proposals that aim to strengthen prevailing wage rules and help workers secure the pay they deserve.

“Prevailing wage is an important safeguard that ensures local workers get a fair deal for their labor,” Hoffman said. “It’s imperative that the General Assembly is responsive to real world concerns that may require us to strengthen rules, and I appreciate the input from labor leaders who have identified
potential loopholes that need to be closed. At the end of the day, we want our workers to get the best deal possible.”

Hoffman’s House Bill 1189 clarifies that workers will receive the highest prevailing wage – whether federal or state – in local public works projects that include federal funding. The measure intends to eliminate potential confusion when rates differ, and specifically impacts projects under state or local control.

Hoffman has also introduced House Bill 1090, which strengthens prevailing wage rules surrounding telecommunication projects. The measure aims to eliminate loopholes that could misrepresent the true scope of a project in an effort to avoid prevailing wage requirements.

“It’s important to me personally that Illinois continues to be a leader in labor rights,” Hoffman said. “We’re going to continue to prioritize working families, ensure everyone has the opportunity for a good wage and strengthen protections against those who want to pursue a race to the bottom. I appreciate the leadership and advocacy from our local labor leaders, and am looking forward to a productive, pro-worker session in Springfield this year.”

For more information, please contact RepJayHoffman@gmail.com.