Dupage Policy Journal

Illinois state Rep. Amy Grant (R-Wheaton) is championing the Blue Collar Jobs Act (BCJA) Tax Credit Program as a vehicle that could bring economic growth and job creation across the state by providing corporate income tax credits to companies that make substantial capital investments in Illinois.

"The Blue Collar Jobs Act Tax Credit Program is a vital tool for attracting major investments and stimulating true economic development across Illinois,” Grant said in a recent news release from her office. “By incentivizing companies to make substantial capital investments in Illinois, residents across the state will have greater access to high quality jobs and experience real economic growth.”

The Blue Collar Jobs Tax Credit Program provides corporate income tax credits to companies that make substantial capital investments in the state, particularly those companies with a specific focus on supporting large-scale economic development activities.

IDES noted that Illinois’ Accommodations and Food Services was one of the several industries to see employment growth.

All the tax credits that are offered through the program are based on the wages paid to construction workers employed on eligible projects. To qualify for the credits, companies must meet criteria that includes being located in an Enterprise Zone (EZ) or a River Edge Redevelopment Zone (RERZ), being designated a High Impact Business (HIB), or having an agreement under the Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) Program.

Under the BCJA program, companies that are eligible can receive up to 75% income tax withholding credits for their construction workers. This is a substantial incentive that should encourage businesses across the state to undertake projects that promote economic expansion and opportunities for employment.

Grant is now in her third term of representing the 47th District after first being elected in 2019. The 47th District includes iNaperville, Warrenville, Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, Lisle, Carol Stream, Bartlett, West Chicago, Winfield and Wayne.