Pritzker signs law to bolster public-works apprenticeships

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Tuesday signed legislation to open doors to new workers rebuilding Illinois' infrastructure.

The General Assembly last spring approved Pritzker's $45 billion capital construction plan. The Democrat said that the Illinois Works Jobs Program he OK'd will ensure that taxpayers statewide not only benefit from projects but are able to get into construction and building trades careers.

The law sponsored by Sen. Napolean Harris III of Chicago and Rep. Will Davis of Homewood, both Democrats, sets aside $25 million to work with community organizations to recruit apprentices. It sets a goal of 10% participation by apprentices on public works projects.

Harris said that the program will 'œsupply minority businesses with full and fair access to local and state construction opportunities.'ť

While the Rebuild Illinois construction program makes an unprecedented investment in the state, Davis said, the apprenticeship measure will ensure it 'œbenefits all of our communities."

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The bill is SB177.

Online: https://bit.ly/2YA9OVm