Senate passes 'Dignity Pay' bill to phase out subminimum wages for workers with disabilities

The Georgia Senate voted 51–3 to pass SB 55, known as the Dignity Pay Act, to phase out the use of Section 14(c) certificates that allow community rehabilitation programs (CRPs) to pay workers with disabilities subminimum wages. The bill gives CRPs a two‑year transition period to bring wages up to at least $7.25 per hour and clarifies that the change applies only to CRPs, not to typical employers.

Sponsor remarks: The bill’s sponsor, the senator from the fourth (Senator Hickman, 4th District, by transcript identification), said the measure is about fairness and dignity for workers with disabilities. “This bill is about stopping certain employers referred to as community rehabilitation programs from paying people with physical and mental disabilities less than federal minimum wage,” he said, describing examples of extremely low pay in Georgia and arguing the state should join a growing list of states eliminating such certificates.

Support and opposition: Senator from the 40 Ninth spoke in support, emphasizing life‑expectancy and employment gains for people with developmental disabilities and arguing that a higher wage standard promotes dignity. In committee, the bill had broad advocacy backing and passed the Senate after members debated implementation timing and exceptions for vocational programs. The legislation does not close CRPs or sheltered workshops but requires wage adjustments over two years.

Passage: The Senate approved the committee substitute and adopted the bill on a 51–3 vote. Supporters said the phased approach provides time for CRPs to adjust operations; opponents raised concerns about employment opportunities and transitional support.

Ending: The sponsor and supporters encouraged appropriations committees and state agencies to support CRPs through the transition. Advocates for disability employment hailed the change as advancing economic inclusion.