Ep 239: Ending Subminimum Wage: The Fight for Fair Pay and Inclusion for Workers with Disabilities
In this episode of the Friends for Life Podcast, we dive into the U.S. Department of Labor’s groundbreaking proposal to phase out 14(c) certificates, a decades-old provision allowing employers to pay workers with disabilities less than minimum wage. This historic move marks a pivotal step toward ending subminimum wage employment and fostering greater economic equity and community inclusion for individuals with disabilities.
We explore the legal and policy advancements that have dramatically expanded employment opportunities since the 1938 Fair Labor Standards Act and discuss the significant decline in the use of 14(c) certificates over the years. With nearly half of the workers under this model earning $3.50 an hour or less, advocates argue that the time has come to prioritize fair wages and competitive employment.
However, the proposed changes are not without controversy. We examine the challenges raised by those who believe sheltered workshops still play a critical role for individuals with severe disabilities requiring highly specialized support. Additionally, we discuss how disability advocacy groups like the Autistic Self Advocacy Network are urging Congress to pass legislation that would ensure a smooth transition to inclusive employment opportunities for all.
Join us for an in-depth look at this crucial moment in disability rights history and the ongoing debate about how best to support individuals with disabilities in achieving meaningful, dignified work.
