New York State took another critical step for domestic workers today! The State Legistlature passed the Domestic Workers Bill of Rights to give labor protections to nannies, eldercare workers, and housekeepers in New York. There are over 200,000 domestic workers in New York City alone. For the first time, domestic workers will have a set 40 hour work week that will also include one day of rest. Domestic Workers United, a JFSJ grantee, has been spearheading this fight and shepherding the bill through the Legistlature. Governer Paterson is expected to sign the bill into law. Read the New York Times briefing here.
