The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) has successfully reclaimed over $483,000 in unpaid wages for construction workers, following multiple complaints against Bulk Storage Inc. This Beecher, Illinois-based contractor will also incur $85,000 in penalties for violations of the state's Prevailing Wage Act, according to a Central Illinois Proud report.
During an inquiry into the contractor's practices, IDOL found that wages and/or benefits weren't paid to more than three dozen individuals, as required by law. "This agreement underscores the importance of ensuring that workers are paid the wages they've earned and are owed," IDOL Director Jane Flanagan stated in an announcement documented by an official press release. Flanagan emphasized that the recovery of these funds not only compensated the affected workers but also highlighted the mandatory compliance that employers must adhere to on public works projects.
The Illinois Prevailing Wage Act is designed to ensure that workers on public construction projects receive the average wage for their job in the area, inclusive of fringe benefits. The settlement reached with Bulk Storage Inc., interestingly, doesn't include an admission of liability or wrongdoing on the part of the contractor.
Workers who believe they have not been properly compensated can take action by filing a complaint with IDOL or calling 312-793-2800 for assistance, as suggested in the press release. The settlement is indicatory of IDOL's commitment to enforce state labor laws and protect workers from unjust employment practices.
