SB 55, the “Dignity and Pay Act,” would phase out the use of subminimum wages for workers with disabilities in Georgia. The bill amends the state’s labor and industrial relations code to prohibit employers from using a federal Section 14(c) certificate to pay individuals with disabilities less than the federal minimum wage. It also repeals existing state provisions that allowed exemptions tied to paying below minimum wage because of disability-related employment considerations.
The bill creates a transition period for employers that already held a federal 14(c) certificate on or before July 1, 2025. Those employers may continue using the certificate temporarily, but must pay at least half of the federal minimum wage during the period from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, and must stop using the certificate to pay subminimum wages on or after July 1, 2027. The act becomes effective July 1, 2025, and repeals conflicting laws.
Impact
SB 55 would significantly change Georgia employment law by eliminating state authorization for subminimum wages for workers with disabilities and removing the commissioner’s exemption framework tied to disability-based wage exceptions. It would affect employers that rely on federal 14(c) certificates, workers with disabilities currently paid below minimum wage, and state labor enforcement practices by shifting Georgia toward a full minimum-wage standard for these employees after the phase-out period.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have broad legislative support. It passed the Senate 51-3 and the House 163-2, indicating strong bipartisan approval and a generally favorable view of the measure. The bill’s title and structure suggest a policy emphasis on dignity, equal pay, and labor protections for people with disabilities.
Contention
The main point of contention is the elimination of subminimum wage arrangements for workers with disabilities, which some employers and service providers may view as necessary for maintaining certain employment opportunities or business models. The bill addresses that concern by allowing a limited transition period for existing federal 14(c) certificate holders, but it ultimately requires full compliance with minimum wage rules. No committee transcript is available, so the record does not show specific arguments from supporters or opponents beyond the narrow vote margins in each chamber.
DIGNIDAD (Dignity) Act of 2025 Dignity for Immigrants while Guarding our Nation to Ignite and Deliver the American Dream Act of 2025 Dream Act Legal Workforce Act American Prosperity and Competitiveness Act
Enacts the climate and community investment act; prioritizes the allocation of public investments in disadvantaged communities; addresses climate change challenges through the expansion and growth of clean and renewable energy sources; adopts best value requirements for the solicitation, evaluation and award of renewable energy projects; establishes a community just transition program; establishes a climate pollution fee and a household and small business energy rebate; creates the climate and community investment authority.