Ugaste Echoes Launch of Blue Collar Jobs Act Tax Credit Application

SPRINGFIELD – Following the Blue Collar Jobs Act (BCJA) from the 101st General Assembly, the State of Illinois is launching the BCJA Tax Credit application for eligible companies. This legislative package was designed to promote growth and economic expansion in Illinois through incentivizing construction projects. The program supports large-scale economic development activities by providing corporate income tax credits to companies that make substantial capital investment in Illinois.

“As chair of the House Republican Reigniting Illinois’ Strong Economy working group, I’m glad to see this bipartisan legislation in action to help bring jobs to Illinois,” said Rep. Ugaste. “I was a proud co-sponsor of the Blue Collar Jobs Act in the 101st General Assembly and will continue working to create a culture of growth in Illinois for job creators. We have so much to offer, and if we commit to growth, we can be a final destination for businesses and families to settle down and thrive for generations.”

BCJA tax credits are based on wages paid to construction workers employed on eligible projects. Companies must be located in an Enterprise Zone (EZ) or River Edge Redevelopment Zone (REDZ), designated a High Impact Business (HIB), or have an agreement under the Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) Program. These companies may receive up to 75% income tax withholding credits for construction workers.

Additional information on eligibility can be found on the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity’s website here: https://dceo.illinois.gov/expandrelocate/incentives/bcja.html.

Rep. Ugaste is a member of the House Labor & Commerce Committee and leads the House Republican Reigniting Illinois’ Strong Economy working group.