SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Disability caregivers are rallying at the Capitol Wednesday to press for a bill setting a $15 minimum wage for the field.
AFSCME-represented Direct Service Personnel who are employed by non-profit agencies that provide care for those with developmental disabilities are asking lawmakers to pass that bill.
The current average wage for the field is $10.50. Supporters of the bill say that is below the federal poverty line for a family of four.
They say this has caused agencies to lose good employees who must take better-paying fast food or janitorial jobs.
Governor Rauner vetoed a $15 starting wage for DSPs in 2016.
