SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Illinois Senate could pass a plan in November to phase out the sub-minimum wage for workers with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Rep. Theresa Mah (D-Chicago) and many other lawmakers believe it is wrong that some people are paid as low as 50 cents per hour and only make $100 per month.
The proposal could create a special grant fund of $2 million to help community agencies transition away from the sub-minimum wages. The Dignity in Pay Act would eliminate the use of 14-C Certificates on July 1, 2029.
"No Illinoisan should be treated as sub-human by only being allowed a sub-minimum wage," said Tyson Bedford, a member of the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities.
House Bill 793 passed out of the House on a bipartisan 78-30 vote with representatives voting present. This plan would need support from three-fifths of the Senate since a vote would take place after May 31.
Illinois would become the 18th state to eliminate sub-minimum wages if the plan is passed and signed into law.
Macon Resources in Decatur is one of the only businesses that pays every worker minimum wage or higher. Sponsors and advocates told reporters in May that every business should follow that standard because workers with developmental disabilities deserve dignity and respect.
"We can all agree Illinois should evolve in a way that respects the full dignity in all people with disabilities," Mah said.Â
Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) has gained 10 Senate co-sponsors for the proposal since session ended.
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