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Council adopts resolution supporting home care workers bargaining for higher wages
Summary
The council adopted a resolution endorsing home care workers’ bargaining demands, including livable wages and improved benefits. Sponsors cited caregivers’ low pay, turnover and the workforce’s demographics (women, people of color, immigrants).
The Boston City Council on June 18 adopted a resolution supporting home care workers who are bargaining through SEIU 1199 Massachusetts for a fair contract with higher wages and improved benefits.
Council President (sponsor) and Councilor Durkin, among others, urged support for home-care workers, who the resolution describes as ‘‘among the lowest paid in the health care industry’’ and as critical to enabling seniors and people with disabilities to remain in their homes. Councilors said low pay contributes to high turnover and disrupts continuity of care.
Speakers cited a recent rally by SEIU 1199 and noted workers requested a $2 increase that they said was met with a 5‑cent offer in an employer counter. Councilors highlighted the equity dimension: the sector is predominantly women, people of color and immigrants. The council adopted the nonbinding resolution by suspension of the rules and voice vote.
Why it matters: Home care workers provide direct services to vulnerable residents; the council’s resolution signals municipal solidarity and places public attention on bargaining outcomes that affect continuity of care and costs to families and the health system.
