MCR and ILEPI | THE IMPACTS OF PROJECT LABOR AGREEMENTS COSTS, COMPETITION, AND CONTRACTORS IN ILLINOIS | Evidence from Capital Development Board Projects

“Project labor agreements (PLAs) are pre-hire agreements that establish terms and conditions of employment for all crafts on large and complex infrastructure projects. The mutual agreements are between construction owners—such as contractors, developers, governments, or public bodies—and coalitions of labor unions supplying skilled workers for the duration of specific projects. The main purpose of PLAs is to promote predictability, productivity, and efficiency on construction projects. PLAs can also enhance opportunities to bid on public works for previously underrepresented businesses while expanding employer access to new domestic labor supply pools.”