Connecticut House Bill HB06739

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/19
• Refer: 1/29/19

Caption

An Act Prohibiting Employers From Paying Disabled Employees Less Than Minimum Wage.

Impact

The impact of HB 06739 could be significant as it reinforces the rights of disabled employees, ensuring that they are not subjected to lower wage standards than those applied to their non-disabled counterparts. If enacted, employers would be legally required to comply with this mandate, which aligns with broader efforts to promote fairness and equality in employment practices. The bill could lead to increased earnings for many disabled workers, thereby enhancing their economic stability and quality of life.

Summary

House Bill 06739 proposes to amend Title 31 of the general statutes to ensure that disabled employees are paid no less than the state-prescribed minimum wage. The bill highlights the importance of equitable pay practices and aims to address the wage disparities faced by disabled individuals in the workforce. By explicitly prohibiting wage discrimination against disabled employees, the legislation seeks to foster an inclusive job market where all employees receive fair compensation for their work.

Contention

While the bill has a clear benevolent intent of promoting fair wages for disabled employees, it may also raise concerns among some employers. They might argue about increased labor costs and the potential implications for hiring decisions, particularly in smaller businesses that may struggle with compliance. The balance between protecting workers' rights and ensuring economic viability for employers could spark ongoing discussions during the legislative process. Overall, the passage of this bill would represent a critical step toward securing better labor rights for disabled individuals.