14C Certificates…What are they all about?

Black and white text with the letters APS E

Guest Blogger: An AZ APSE Board Member. 

Did you know some people with disabilities work for less than minimum wage? It’s true! In the 1930s a law passed that allowed businesses to get special permission to pay their disabled employees less than everyone else. And businesses are still using this antiquated law, almost a hundred years later to pay people cents on the dollar. The Daily Show with Trevor Noah even did a piece about it…but it’s no joke.

The program is part of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938.  The section that talks about employment of workers with disabilities at special minimum wages is 14(c). And that is why businesses say they have a ‘14C certificate’. As of October, 2022, Arizona had 34 businesses waiting or approved for 14Cs all across the state. Some of these places have over a hundred employees making less than minimum wage. You can find out how many of these certificate holders are in every state at any time. The Department of Labor keeps a list on its website.

When we say, ‘less than minimum wage’, it is important to note that there is no rule for how little people can make. AZ APSE has met people who work 30 hours a week and only make $15 for the entire week. If you or someone you know is making less than minimum wage, there are other options. Check out some of the great Arizona resources where you can learn more about your employment options:

Some states have decided not to allow 14Cs anymore. We at AZ APSE hope that Arizona will be the next state to stop allowing employers to pay subminimum wage. Visit our website to see how you can help people with disabilities get paid a living wage for work that they choose. And thank you for supporting employment for all!

Mon, 04/03/2023 - 9:55am