SPRINGFIELD – State Representative Patrick Windhorst (R-Metropolis) is notifying residents of the implementation of the long-awaited Blue Collar Jobs Act Tax Credits program. Windhorst was a co-sponsor of HB 3373 in the 101st General Assembly. The House Republican Floor Leader says the program makes $20 million in tax credits available every year for eligible companies that employ construction workers.
“I am happy to have been part of a bipartisan effort to incentivize businesses to invest in Illinois and locate good-paying construction and manufacturing jobs here,” Windhorst said. “The implementation of the Blue Collar Jobs Act will help support construction projects and boost economic development in the state.”
According to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), eligible companies can receive tax credits equal to 75 percent of the income tax attributable to construction workers on eligible projects located in an underserved area, or 50 percent for projects located in other areas. The Blue Collar Jobs Act amended legislation for Illinois’ premier incentive programs to provide tax credits attributable to the wages paid to construction workers on eligible projects. Eligible companies include those who are located in an Enterprise Zone (EZ) or a River Edge Redevelopment Zone (RERZ), companies designated a High Impact Business (HIB), or companies with an agreement under the Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) Program. Companies that completed construction projects in 2021 (the effective date of the legislation) or later are eligible to apply for credits.
“I want to encourage businesses that employ construction workers to explore the opportunity to take advantage of tax credits under this program,” Windhorst said. “Resources are available through DCEO that can significantly assist in starting, continuing, and finishing major construction projects and employing hard-working Illinoisans.”
DCEO will host a technical assistance webinar to share details regarding the BCJA program application and processes on Monday, June 26, 2023, from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Click here to sign up and RSVP; companies looking for information are encouraged to email ceo.bcja@illinois.gov or visit the BCJA website.