Rep. Avelar Champions Affordable Housing and Workforce Expansion with New Legislation

ROMEOVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Dagmara “Dee” Avelar is spearheading two bold legislative initiatives to tackle two critical issues: the rising cost of housing and the growing shortage of skilled utility workers. Through new measures, Avelar is fighting to make homeownership more accessible and create pathways to stable, good-paying jobs.

Addressing the Affordable Housing Crisis

“The rising cost of housing is squeezing families across our communities, and too often, new affordable developments just aren’t keeping pace with demand,” said Avelar. “By incentivizing new construction, we can expand housing options, bring down costs, and give families a real shot at homeownership.”

Avelar’s House Bill 1147, the Build Illinois Homes Tax Credit, seeks to remove financial barriers preventing affordable housing developments. The measure offers tax credits to developers to offset costs like taxes, fees, and other expenses that often make projects unfeasible. The bill aims to accelerate the construction of much-needed affordable homes by easing these financial burdens.

Building a Stronger Workforce for Essential Water Jobs

Beyond housing, Avelar is also focused on expanding access to in-demand careers that strengthen communities—particularly in the water industry, where an aging workforce creates a looming labor shortage.

“We’re on the brink of a major workforce gap as experienced water operators near retirement, and right now, too many people are locked out of these good-paying jobs because they lack formal credentials,” said Avelar. “We have an opportunity to invest in both our workforce and the safety of our drinking water.”

Her second measure, House Bill 1699, establishes a certification program for water operators, ensuring a new generation of workers is trained to maintain, test, and treat drinking water. The initiative is designed to be inclusive, offering access to individuals who may not have completed high school but are eager to enter the utility workforce.

Both bills reflect Avelar’s commitment to creating economic opportunities while addressing urgent community needs. These measures aim to uplift working families and build a stronger, more resilient Illinois by tackling the housing shortage and expanding career pathways.