The US government has decided to continue allowing employers to pay workers with disabilities less than the minimum wage. This practice has been in place since 1938 and is permitted under special certificates, known as 14(c) certificates, issued by the Department of Labor.
Recently, the Department of Labor under the Biden administration proposed phasing out these certificates over three years. The idea was to give workers with disabilities better job opportunities and fairer pay. However, this proposal was canceled after concerns were raised by some lawmakers.
Although the number of workers being paid subminimum wage has decreased significantly over the years, from 424,000 in 2001 to around 40,000 in 2024, the government thinks there are still people who rely on this program. However, disability rights advocates strongly disagree with this decision.
They argue that paying workers with disabilities less than the minimum wage is unfair and limits their chances of fully participating in society. Some workers earn as little as $1 an hour, which is unacceptable. Many advocates believe that this practice should be abolished altogether.
Colin Killick, head of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, expressed his disappointment with the decision. He said that both parties had previously supported fair and inclusive employment, and some states had already banned subminimum wage. This move, he believes, is a step backward.
The decision has sparked controversy, with many calling for equal pay for workers with disabilities. The issue remains a topic of debate, with some arguing that the program is necessary for certain individuals, while others believe it’s a form of exploitation. As the situation stands, workers with disabilities will continue to be paid less than the minimum wage under the 14(c) program.
