The proposed bill seeks to amend the Living Wage Act of 2006, establishing new living wage rates for employees of government contractors and recipients of government assistance. Effective January 1, 2025, the living wage will be set at $17.50 per hour, increasing to $17.95 per hour on July 1, 2025. This requirement applies to all recipients of contracts valued at $100,000 or more, as well as subcontractors receiving $15,000 or more from these contracts. The bill also outlines specific exemptions from the living wage requirement, including employees of nonprofit organizations with fewer than 50 employees, Medicaid provider agreements for direct care services, and contracts between managed care organizations and health administrations.
Additionally, the bill includes detailed wage determinations for various occupations, ensuring fair compensation across multiple sectors, including maintenance, technical fields, and health occupations. It specifies hourly wage rates for a wide range of job titles and emphasizes compliance with federal guidelines, such as Executive Orders 14026 and 13658, which mandate higher minimum wages and paid sick leave for federal contractors. The Department of Employment Services will oversee enforcement, requiring recipients and subcontractors to notify affiliated employees of their rights under this law. Overall, the bill aims to enhance worker protections and ensure fair pay for employees engaged in government contracts and assistance programs.