Article Summary –
Michigan Republican Rep. Tim Walberg, along with two colleagues, has proposed a bill to exclude home care workers from federal minimum wage and overtime laws. The bill, backed by the Private Care Association, would reverse a 2013 Department of Labor rule that applied these protections to workers who provide companionship care to the elderly and those with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses. However, home care workers and advocates argue that the bill would harm both caregivers and the people they serve, potentially leading to a workforce shortage in the sector.
The federal $7.25 minimum wage hasn’t seen an increase since 2009. However, if Rep. Tim Walberg and fellow Republicans succeed, home care workers may face lower wages.
On Jan. 25, a bill was introduced in the House which seeks to overturn a 2013 Department of Labor rule mandating minimum wage and overtime for caregiving workers. If passed, these workers will lose wage protections.
The Private Care Association, representing home care businesses, supports the bill. They’ve donated $3,000 to Walberg this election cycle, their largest donation to date.
However, companion care workers and advocates disagree, arguing it would harm both caregivers and those dependent on them.
Home care worker Phyllis Pride argues that the elimination of wage protections would deter people from caregiving roles. “The companionship exemption will only make it more difficult for families to find skilled, compassionate caregivers,” she said.
In Nevada, SEIU Local 1107 cites stagnant wages and a shortage of home care workers. A recent $16 minimum wage increase was described as “life-changing” by union spokesperson, Dave Bates.
The National Domestic Workers Alliance has been pushing for domestic workers’ rights in 11 states, including minimum wage and overtime. However, Michigan hasn’t yet adopted such a law.
Walberg’s spokesperson has not yet provided a comment on the matter.
Given the current infighting and legislative struggles among House Republicans, and a Democratic Senate majority, the bill’s enactment seems unlikely this year.
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