CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – A new report from the Illinois Economic Policy Institute (ILEPI) and the Project for Middle Class Renewal at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign reveals that Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) are helping Illinois taxpayers and workers alike.
The study analyzed over 2,500 bids across 773 public building projects between 2017 and 2023 and found that projects with PLAs had 14% more bid competition on average. Despite PLA-covered projects being generally larger and more complex, they did not cost more to build when adjusted for project size, complexity, and other key factors.
PLAs help standardize labor conditions, reduce the risk of strikes or delays, and ensure a steady, skilled workforce. The report also highlights workforce development gains, including a 28% rise in skilled trade apprenticeship enrollment and increased involvement from veteran, women-, and minority-owned businesses.
Researchers conclude that PLAs not only maintain safety and job quality, but also boost inclusion, lower risk, and deliver better value for public dollars.
Read the full report: The Impact of Project Labor Agreements on Costs, Competition, and Contractors in Illinois: Evidence from Capital Development Board Projects