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The workers in Springfield represent caregivers who work and support
people in Illinois who are living with developmental disabilities.
Two measures, Senate Bill 1600 and House Bill 3398, would establish
reimbursement rates that build toward livable wages for caregivers.
According to AFSCME's Doug Woodson, the wage increases would go
toward issues of hiring more workers.
"Services can not be provided if there is not enough staff to
provide them," Woodson said. "Historically, the state has not done
what it takes to meet that obligation. The system of care for people
with developmental disabilities is at a breaking point."
Woodson said studies have shown that these Illinois workers are
underpaid.
"Guidehouse found that to adequately staff community agencies so
they can provide essential services, agencies would need to pay 115%
of the minimum wage," Woodson said. "AFSCME is in complete agreement
with other advocates and SEIU on the need for full implementation of
the Guidehouse study."
The workers are seeking a $4 per hour increase in their wages.
However, state Sen. Javier Cervantes, D-Chicago, said, more could be
needed.
"They are completely underpaid. When I was a union representative
for them back in 2017, folks were barely making ten bucks an hour.
It is not fair," Cervantes said. "A four-dollar increase is a good
step in the right direction, but we even need more. I have seen it
first hand. I just want to thank you for all the work you do, our
most vulnerable population is who you take care of."
Both measures currently sit with the Assignments Committee. Neither
has attracted witness slips in opposition.
Andrew Hensel reports on issues in Chicago and
Statewide. He has been with The Center Square News since April of
2021 and was previously with The Joliet Slammers.
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