Illinois House passes bill that would phase out the sub-minimum wage for the disabled

Posted on May 24, 2024
HB 793 has passed the House, 78-30, and goes to the Senate. (Dave Dahl/WJBC)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – Disabled Illinoisans who make a sub-minimum wage in community workshops would eventually make the minimum, if a bill which passed the House Thursday becomes law.

The sponsor of the “Dignity in Pay” Act is State Rep. Theresa Mah (D-Chicago).

“One in four of us has a disability,” Mah said. “People with disabilities are our neighbors, our friends, and those we love. Our brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, you and me.”

State Rep. Dan Swanson (R-Alpha) said the bill represents a hardship for employers and would backfire.

“How do these businesses look a parent in the eye,” he said, “and say, I’m sorry, but your family member is no longer employed here.”

HB 793 has passed the House, 78-30, and goes to the Senate.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]

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