Bill > S0006

This bill repeals the Commissioner of Labor's current authority to recommend a subminimum wage for individuals with disabilities. Specifically, the bill amends 21 V.S.A. § 385 by removing language that previously allowed the Commissioner to recommend wage rates less than the regular minimum wage for persons with disabilities. The existing law permitted the Commissioner to set lower wage rates for certain categories of workers like learners and apprentices, including those with disabilities. By deleting the phrase "and persons with disabilities" from the statute, the bill eliminates the legal basis for paying workers with disabilities less than the standard minimum wage. This change means that individuals with disabilities would be entitled to the same minimum wage as other workers, removing a potential form of wage discrimination. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage, ensuring prompt implementation of this wage equity provision.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/S.6