SPRINGFIELD - Emphasizing the need to protect contractors in Illinois and reform Illinois’ retainage policies, State Senator Willie Preston advanced legislation for contractors and subcontractors to receive the money they deserve.

“Workers in Illinois should never have to question if they will get paid for their work,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “It's time to make sure that contractors are receiving 100% pay for 100% work. We took a step forward in the construction industry to ensure that we truly support small businesses that create jobs throughout the state.”

House Bill 1224 would permit state agencies to retain a percentage of payments due to a contractor or subcontractor only if they are not progressing on a project. Upon completion of the project, the agency must pay the contractor or subcontractor the money that was retained during the project.

The bill would only apply to state agencies and public universities, not local governments or private developments.

“This fight is deeply personal to me and I want to tell you that if you are a small contractor, I will always stand up for you, fight for you, and advocate for you,” said Preston. “We must continue to empower our minority small businesses and push for fairness for all contractors.”

Preston – who ran a small contracting business himself – knows firsthand how hard it is to make sure you make payments and fulfill all of the obligations that you have as a small business owner, only to have your profit withheld for months at a time.

“This reform is about equity,” said Luis Vazquez President of Toro Construction. “It’s about ensuring that small minority-owned contractors can compete fairly, get paid fully, and reinvest in the communities we serve. I’m proud to stand with Senator Preston and all those committed to bringing long-overdue change to our industry.”

House Bill 1224 passed the Senate and awaits further consideration.

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