Wage bill will hurt many adults with disabilities

The U.S. House of Representatives has a bill in committee that will dramatically alter the lives of many Iowans. This bill is intended to help them, but, sadly, will not. For many of the targeted workers, this bill is a pink slip in disguise. Many will suffer serious loss of their self-worth and ability to support themselves.

The bill, HR 3086, calls for the elimination of wage structures that for more than 70 years have allowed adults with disabilities to work in productive and fulfilling jobs. Today, these workers have satisfying jobs that pay them competitively, not just at the federal minimum wage. No matter how well intended this bill, the net effect will be the closing of critical sheltered workshops such as Goodwill Industries and Options of Linn County. This will increase demand on government budgets to further support many of these workers.

I am the father of one of these workers. Without his job, for which he is paid a minuscule, but competitive rate, he will lose his self worth and no longer have the great feeling of bringing home a paycheck. He is a good worker in the sheltered environment, but does not stand a chance of getting a minimum-wage job.

This bill will move productive Iowans out of jobs and into tax-supported day shelters. Net effect: more unemployed and higher government spending!

Craig E. Harwood

Cedar Rapids