Employees with disabilities who can do a specific job deserve the same wages as their co-workers. However, several community rehabilitation providers in Georgia have been taking advantage of a federal law that exempts disabled employees from federal minimum wage laws. In fact, there is no minimum wage at all for workers who fall into this exemption. The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights says that across the country, these individuals earn an average of $3.34 per hour, well below the standard $7.25 rate.
Now, in a move that could have a significant impact on the lives of the state’s disabled workers, a bipartisan bill has been introduced to eliminate the subminimum wage. House Bill 1125 aims to rectify this inequity by requiring all workers, regardless of disability, to be paid at least the standard minimum wage. This initiative comes amid growing recognition of the capabilities and contributions of disabled workers, as well as a broader push for disability rights.
Eight community rehabilitation providers in the state currently possess the federal certificate that authorizes the subminimum wage, down from 14 when the bill was originally proposed. More than 200 workers statewide are subject to the lower pay rate. Should the legislation be enacted, it should give more disabled Georgians the chance to support themselves. The change could also promote greater inclusion and equal treatment of disabled workers in the workplace.
Supporters of House Bill 1125 point to the reasons that many other states have passed similar laws. One of the testifying witnesses at the committee hearing was a visually impaired man who formerly received a subminimum wage through a community rehabilitation group. Subsequently, he took a job at Home Depot, where he is entitled to the same minimum pay rate as other employees. He says the difference has made an enormous positive impact on his life and his ability to support his family.
Under the bill, the community rehabilitation providers would have to pay workers with disabilities the standard minimum wage by July 1, 2026. A federal grant would help fund the transition.
At The Reddy Law Firm, P.C., we are committed to advocating for the rights of disabled workers. If you have questions about this legislation or any other matters relating to Georgia wage and hour law, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can schedule a consultation by calling 678-629-3246 or contacting us online. Our office is in Alpharetta.
