Task Force on Phasing Out Subminimum wage in South Carolina

There is a growing movement across the country to end subminimum wages for people with disabilities. In South Carolina, bill S. 533 to phase out subminimum wage and implement the Employment First Act was signed into law on May 23, 2022. Subminimum wages were phased out by August 1, 2024.

To make sure South Carolina was prepared, the South Carolina Legislature set up the Task Force on Eliminating Subminimum Wage to develop a plan.

The task force ensured a smooth transition when our state’s policy changes phased out subminimum wages.

Subminimum Wage Task Force Documents

The Task Force on Subminimum Wage presents its findings and proposed course of action as outlined in Senate Bill 533. The primary objectives of the task force were to evaluate the current use of subminimum wage practices and develop a plan to eliminate the practice in South Carolina by August 1, 2024.

Provider Resources

Provider Transformation Manual 1.0

Provider Transformation Manual 2.0

Provider Transformation Efforts

Laurens DSNB Blog Post

Thrive Upstate Blog Post

Laurens DSNB discusses changing culture (video)

The executive directors at Laurens DSNB and Thrive Upstate are available to provide technical assistance and support regarding their transition from subminimum wage to competitive, integrated employment (CIE). Please reach out to hiremesc@able-sc.org to connect for support.

Learn more about Employment First Initiatives and the benefits of competitive, integrated employment by exploring this webiste, HireMeSC.org.

Media

Under state deadline, SC employers phase out subminimum wage

Other Documents

Subminimum Wage Provider Survey Data, December 2023

Memorandum on removing sheltered workshops as a transition goal from student IEPs - 12/11/2023

Justice Department Issues Guidance on the Americans with Disabilities Act and Employment Services for People with Disabilities- October 2023