Sen. Baldacci introduces bill to raise healthcare support worker’s pay

AUGUSTA — On Tuesday, Feb. 14, Sen. Joe Baldacci, D-Bangor, introduced LD 116, “An Act to Establish a Minimum Wage for All Health Care Workers Including All Support Staff.” The bill was subject to a public hearing in the Joint Standing Committee on Labor and Housing.

“The COVID-19 Pandemic highlighted the critical need and importance of healthcare workers in our state,” said Sen. Baldacci. “However, doctors and nurses are not the only ones who risked their lives for the common good. Support staff were there as well, cleaning rooms, preparing food, and working in administration to help keep hospitals running and save lives. They are all important and essential to the well being of our communities. These individuals should be rewarded Failure to invest in them would be a disservice to those who put their lives on the line to keep our communities healthy.”

LD 116 would establish a minimum wage for healthcare support staff. This includes, but is not limited to health care practitioners, dietary staff, and housekeeping and support staff. In its current state, the bill would establish a minimum wage of $15.00 starting Jan. 1, 2024.

The bill faces further action in committee.