(WSIL) --ÌýGovernor JB Pritzker signed an executive order to ensure people with disabilities receive equal pay for work they perform as employees of state vendors.ÌýÌý
“Illinois is leading by example by ensuring people with disabilities are not paid a subminimum wage,â€Ì�said Governor JB Pritzker. “With this executive order my administration is affirming that people with disabilities are valued members of our workforce who deserve the dignity of equal pay.â€Ì�
Coming during Disability Employment Awareness month, this EO will prevent state agencies from entering contracts with vendors in the State Use Program who pay people with disabilities a subminimum wage. In addition, the EO requires state agencies who currently have contracts with vendors who pay people with disabilities a subminimum wage to re-negotiate those contracts to ensure everyone is paid at least the minimum wage.Ìý
Through the State Use program, Illinois encourages all agencies to purchase products and services produced and provided by people with disabilities. The program is intended to provide long-term employment opportunities for people with disabilities through non-profit agencies who contract with state agencies.Ìý
“We know that justice is about more than prisons and courts. It’s about equitable access to opportunities in the workplace and equal pay,â€Ì�said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton.Ìý"Workers with disabilities earn 87 cents for every dollar earned by those without disabilities. This EO prevents this harmful practice by ensuring people with disabilities are valued and compensated for their work like anyone else. Illinois continues to lead in efforts to make our country more equitable for all and closing wage gaps that impede progress."ÌýÌý
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