IDOT NEWSFLASH: APPRENTICESHIP AND TRAINING CERTIFICATION

NOTICE TO ALL CONTRACTORS, SUBCONTRACTORS AND COUNTY ENGINEERS

IDOT Circular Letters 2006-1 and 2005-08 set forth the procedures for the handling of protests based on the responsible bidder provision of the Illinois Procurement Act. This provision concerns the participation of a bidder in applicable apprenticeship and training programs. These procedures will continue to be utilized.
In the past, protests involving the trade of Teamster were not allowed, as there was no U.S. Department of Labor approved Teamster apprenticeship and training program in downstate Illinois. In April, 2007, the U. S. Department of Labor approved a Teamster apprenticeship program. This apprenticeship program will be fully operational by the first of next year.
Therefore, as of January 1, 2008 protests for the trade of Teamster will be entertained by IDOT in the determination of a bidder qualifying under the responsible bidder provision of the Illinois Procurement Act. All bidders on projects utilizing that skill will be required to be a participant in an apprenticeship/training program for that trade.
These requirements apply to all bidders and subcontractors on state funded projects. They do not apply to federal-aid projects.

If you have any questions please contact Jim Duncan at 217-782-7806.