New Hampshire Passes Legislation That Ends Sub-minimum Wages to Persons with Disabilities

New Hampshire is the first state in the country to pass legislation to repeal statutes that permit employers to pay persons with disabilities less than the state minimum wage simply because they have a disability. “Senate Bill 47 is a historic policy statement that reflects the current approach to hiring persons with disabilities that has evolved since the 1940’s in New Hampshire – every person with a disability can be competitively employed with the right supports and right job match,” said Chris Rueggeberg, Policy Director for the New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities. “Paying people with disabilities subminimum wages is not necessary or helpful for them to get a job. They can be hired on their merits and abilities,” added Rueggeberg.  This bill prohibits employers from employing individuals with disabilities at an hourly rate lower than the federal minimum wage except for practical experience or training programs and family businesses.