SPRINGFIELD – As construction season kicks off, Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza is reminding contractors and construction workers about the state's prevailing wage laws, which ensure fair pay for workers on publicly funded projects. The law mandates that contractors pay their employees at least the established minimum wage and benefits, which are set by county.

These laws are designed to ensure workers are compensated fairly and to provide a level playing field for contractors bidding on taxpayer-funded projects. “I want the hardworking people of Illinois who are building our roads, reinforcing bridges, and putting up new structures to know that we have their back,” said Comptroller Mendoza. “As state comptroller, I am the state’s chief fiscal and accountability officer and the last line of defense in making sure workers on public projects are paid properly.”

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In 2019, Mendoza signed an executive order to strengthen the enforcement of prevailing wage laws. This order empowered the Illinois Office of Comptroller (IOC) to withhold state payments to any contractor found in violation of these laws.

“Shutting off the money spigot has proven to be an effective tool in deterring wage theft, and we want to hear from workers who feel they are not being paid in accordance with state law,” Mendoza continued.

A notable case in 2023 involved a broadband project employer who had been violating prevailing wage laws. The contractor's payments were halted, and the company was forced to pay back wages and fines. Two workers had been underpaid by more than $20,000.

As of 2025, there has been an increase in suspected prevailing wage violations across the state. The Comptroller’s office has received 50 complaints so far this year, and 28 of those have already been resolved.

To help facilitate the reporting of violations, the IOC has made it easy for workers and other individuals to submit complaints through a portal on its website. Complaints are then investigated by office staff.

For more information or to submit a complaint, visit the Illinois Comptroller’s prevailing wage webpage.

The Illinois prevailing wage laws play a crucial role in ensuring that workers are paid fairly for their labor, especially in public works projects. By maintaining these standards, the state fosters fairness in construction contracting and helps uphold a competitive and honest marketplace.

Mendoza’s office has seen significant progress in the enforcement of prevailing wage laws over recent years. By taking a strong stance on wage theft, Illinois continues to set a precedent for other states, ensuring that workers receive what they are owed for their work on taxpayer-funded projects.

“Prevailing wage laws are about more than just fair pay; they are about respecting the dignity of work,” Mendoza emphasized. “This office will continue to fight for workers and ensure that contractors adhere to the law. Our approach to enforcement has already proven effective, and we will not hesitate to take action when workers’ rights are violated.”

The proactive steps taken by the Illinois Comptroller's office, including withholding payments to non-compliant contractors, have sent a strong message that the state is committed to safeguarding workers and preventing wage theft in the construction industry. The increased number of complaints received in 2025 reflects the growing awareness of these laws among workers, and the continued success of the office’s enforcement efforts.

Construction workers, contractors, and industry stakeholders are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the prevailing wage laws and to reach out to the Illinois Comptroller’s office if they suspect violations. By ensuring compliance, the state can maintain fair and equitable wages for those building the infrastructure that is essential to Illinois' growth.

Originally reported by Kim Howard in River Bender.