Debate surrounding minimum wage continues in Rhode Island

DISTRICT 1199 SEIU New England represents 29,000 health care workers and helped to organize a rally calling for an increase to the minimum wage.
DISTRICT 1199 SEIU New England represents 29,000 health care workers and helped to organize a rally calling for an increase to the minimum wage.

PROVIDENCE – The debate surrounding the minimum wage continues in Rhode Island, as caregivers are calling for a rate starting at $15 per hour.

Certified nurse assistants and direct-service workers, who care for elderly residents and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, marched last week to the Statehouse from Charlesgate Nursing Center in Providence.

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The group called for increased wages, saying low pay results in high staff turnover, which subsequently diminishes the quality of care provided to Rhode Islanders.

“Having a next generation of workers to take care of elderly residents in nursing homes is challenging because of the low pay,” said Vicky Mitchell, a CNA at Hopkins Manor in North Providence.

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The state’s $9.60 per-hour minimum wage is set to increase to $10.10 per hour on Jan. 1, and $10.50 per hour in 2019.

The issue of raising the minimum wage is a perennial debate in Rhode Island, and often debated among lawmakers. But increases are largely opposed by the business community, as employers argue increased minimum wages stifles job growth and boosts joblessness.

The median wage for nursing home CNAs in Rhode Island is $13.14 per hour, according to a press release.

Eli Sherman is a PBN staff writer. Email him at Sherman@PBN.com, or follow him on Twitter @Eli_Sherman.

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