The proposed bill amends the Living Wage Act of 2006 to establish new living wage rates for employees of government contractors and recipients of government assistance. Starting January 1, 2025, the living wage will be set at $17.50 per hour, increasing to $17.95 per hour on July 1, 2025. The bill mandates that this requirement applies to all contracts valued at $100,000 or more, as well as to subcontractors receiving $15,000 or more from these contracts. It also defines "affiliated employee" and outlines specific exemptions, including employees of nonprofit organizations with fewer than 50 individuals and certain Medicaid provider agreements.
Additionally, the bill emphasizes compliance enforcement, stating that the Department of Employment Services (DOES) and the D.C. Office of Contracting and Procurement will share monitoring responsibilities. It requires recipients and subcontractors to inform affiliated employees of their rights under the Living Wage Act and to maintain payroll records for at least three years. The bill also includes provisions for reporting non-compliance and filing complaints, ensuring that employees are aware of their rights to receive at least the current living wage.