ICA To Assess New Wage Law For Disabled Worker Programs

The Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA), the agency responsible for implementing changes to Arizona's new voter-approved minimum wage law, is advising employers who participate in special work programs for the disabled to proceed as usual until the agency's able to address concerns about how the new law applies in these cases. Approved by voters in Nov., Prop 202 raises Arizona's minimum wage to $6.75 an hour beginning Jan. 1st, 2007.

Last week, Arizona employers exempt from minimum wage standards for developmentally- or physically-challenged workers through approved "sheltered work center" programs & community members raised questions about the law. Because the ICA will still be in the process of gathering information from the both the community & employers on the effective date, employers who participate in sheltered work center programs will not be penalized for not paying the new wage. They are being advised to follow current procedure until an advisory opinion can be issued.

"It is clear that Arizona companies involved in these employment programs are anxious to comply with the law," said Larry Etchechury, Director of the Commission. "We will work thoroughly & quickly to ensure that we provide affected employers the guidance they need, so they can be sure they are doing what is required."

Employers with questions are encouraged to contact the Industrial Commission at (602) 542-4411 or by e-mail at letchechury@ica.state.az.us. Up-to-date information is also being posted on the ICA's website at www.ica.state.az.us.