IL HB2538

Creates the General Contractors Licensing Act requiring state licensure through the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to use the title "general contractor" in Illinois

Establishes a 9-member General Contractor Board (7 licensed contractors, 2 public members) appointed by the Secretary, with members serving 4-year terms

Creates 5 license classes based on project value limits: Class A (unlimited, $2,000/year), Class B ($10 million max, $1,000/year), Class C ($5 million max, $750/year), Class D ($2 million max, $500/year), Class E ($500,000 max, $300/year)

Requires applicants to complete 12 hours of approved coursework in dwelling construction covering construction laws, codes, business practices, wage theft prevention, and subcontractor selection

Allows discipline including fines up to $10,000 per violation, license suspension or revocation for violations; unlicensed use of the title constitutes a Class A misdemeanor (first offense) or Class 4 felony (subsequent offenses)