LaPointe Passes Dignity in Pay Act, Prioritizes Disability Rights & Uplifting Workers

CHICAGO – Working towards full opportunities for children and adults with developmental disabilities, State Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, supported transformative legislation during the fall Veto Session that will finally phase out the subminimum wage for workers with disabilities.

“No one should feel undervalued because they have a developmental disability. By guaranteeing fair wages for all, we are creating an inclusive workforce that benefits everyone,” said LaPointe. “This legislation will not only uplift individuals with disabilities but also enhance workplaces across Illinois by maximizing the talent and contributions of all workers. I am grateful to Representative Mah and Senator Castro for leading this legislative effort.”

The Dignity in Pay Act will eliminate 14c certificates for thousands of Illinois employees paid less than the minimum wage to ensure that all Illinois workers, regardless of disability status, are paid the minimum wage by the end of 2029. To assist employers and employees with this transition, the state will allocate $2 million in transition grants and increase the Personal Needs Allowance for Illinoisans residing in Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILAs) to $100 monthly.

“With the Dignity in Pay Act, Illinois joins a handful of other states to abolish the subminimum wage, emphasizing the potential of residents with disabilities to participate in the workforce and contribute to our economy fully,” said LaPointe.

The Dignity in Pay Act builds on the ongoing efforts of advocates, providers, parents, residents with disabilities, and legislators such as LaPointe to create full opportunities for kids and adults with developmental disabilities. On a local level, LaPointe has worked with partners Vaughn Occupational High School, Wright College, and local businesses like Eli’s Cheesecake to ensure young adults with disabilities have access to quality education and pathways to employment. The local partners participate in the Wright Access Program, funded by a state job training grant, to provide training and support to local young people with disabilities for post-secondary employment.

LaPointe, a former social worker with experience supporting youth with disabilities, has been a leading voice in increasing wages for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and the human service and behavioral health workforce. Recent wins to stabilize the workforce include consistent DSP wage increases, the new Human Service Professional Loan Repayment Program, and an expansion of the Community Behavioral Health Professional Loan Repayment Program. Information and application guidance for both loan programs are available at the following links: https://www.isac.org/students/after-college/forgiveness-programs/

For more information, please contact Info@RepLaPointe.com or 773-647-1174.