Good afternoon,
Neighboring Philadelphia moved toward the bleeding edge when it comes to “workers rights” issues.
The council overwhelmingly passed a fair workweek law that requires larger employers with many locations to post schedules a couple of weeks in advance and pay extra for last minute changes.
Similar legislation has been passed in left-leaning cities like San Francisco and Seattle. Critics claim such legislation, especially when combined with a $15 an hour minimum wage, leaves to fewer hours for part-time workers and does nothing to address poverty-level pay.
After all, restaurants and retailers often have little flexibility in pricing, even in a strong economy, especially when the home offices advertise promotions that can prove costly to franchisees.
Delaware has not been exempt from the debate. The issue led to the formation of a working group to study shift work issues.
Delaware Department of Labor complaint figures points a lack of crisis conditions regarding shift work. The number of complaints dropped in the last few years despite a tighter labor supply. One would have thought the opposite would have occurred.
A draft final report stops short of recommending a fair workweek law but pointed to issues, such as bus schedules and enforcement.
Restaurants, retail stores, and the hospitality industry are not sure the issue has been put to rest.
The previous Delaware General Assembly focused on social justice issues and new members may be even more inclined to pursue a fair workweek.
Do you think a fair workweek bill is a good or bad idea? Hit return for this newsletter and type away .- Doug Rainey, publisher
