Responsible Bidding
   
 
 
 
Frequently Asked Questions

Doesn’t the Prevailing Wage clause result in higher construction costs?
Will fewer contractors bid on our work if we have an RBO?
What types of Public Bodies can pass RBO’s?
How do I Get Started?




Doesn’t the Prevailing Wage clause result in higher construction costs?

The Prevailing Wage Act is an Illinois state law that applies to all public construction projects regardless of whether or not the awarding agency has an RBO - the RBO simply reiterates the law, assuring that the contractor hired will follow the law.

But the answer to this question is no - studies have shown that paying prevailing wages does not increase the overall construction cost of a given project.

“Data from numerous state-level studies on public construction costs show no evidence that lower prevailing wages and benefits reduced construction costs charged by contractors performing public works. Lower prevailing wage/minimum wages paid to workers have no measurable impact on public construction costs partly because wage declines lead to offsetting declines in productivity. Further, real savings in public construction costs are more likely to come from investments in worker training, which can make workers more productive, thereby lowering costs without cutting wages.”
      - Professor Robert Bruno, Director of Labor Studies, Associate Professor of Labor and Industrial Relations - University of Illinois


Will fewer contractors bid on our work if we have an RBO?

Very few contractors will opt to not bid on work covered under an RBO, and the ones that do, are usually not ones you would want on the project anyway. Lawabiding contractors that adhere to Illinois contracting laws and desire a fair, competitive bidding landscape will welcome the presence of an RBO.



What types of Public Bodies can pass RBO’s?

We’re aware of none that can’t! Any public taxing body should adopt an RBO, from the State of Illinois, down to the smallest Soil & Water Conservation District.



How do I Get Started?


If you’re reading this website, you’re already started. The process of actually adopting an ordinance can vary greatly. You may need to present the idea to a board or council members for a vote. Whatever the process, please know that we are here to help provide information to you and whomever will be making this decision. We have presentations, brochures and a video available. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions, materials, or assistance
you may need.



 
   
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