This bill aims to eliminate the practice of paying subminimum wages to individuals based on age, disability, injury, or their status as apprentices, learners, or students. It prohibits employers from utilizing special licenses issued by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development's Wage and Hour Division to pay these individuals less than the state minimum wage. The bill emphasizes the importance of economic justice and pay parity, particularly for persons with disabilities, who are often unable to reach their full potential when working under such conditions.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to remove references to "handicapped citizens" and instead uses the term "persons with disabilities." It also repeals the law that allowed for the issuance of special certificates or licenses for employing individuals at subminimum wages. The changes reflect a broader movement towards recognizing the discriminatory nature of subminimum wage practices and align New Jersey with other states that have already banned such practices. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:16-51, 54:10A-5.38, 54A:4-11, 34:11-56