Lafayette County Enterprises Executive Director Suzanne Smith spoke to KMMO News regarding the Department of Labor’s (DOL) announcement to not renew Section 14(c) certificates and phase out sheltered workshops over the next three years.

The Department of Labor made the announcement on Tuesday, December 3, to phase out certificates allowing payment of less than minimum wage to workers with disabilities. The current federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. The department hopes this proposal will lead to these workers moving to jobs that pay for higher wages, however, Smith says this proposal could have a negative impact on these workers.

Smith notes that more than 5,000 Missouri workers could be affected by this action.

The Department of Labor does encourage interested parties to submit comments on the proposal once it is published in the Federal Register. All comments must be received by January 17, 2025, for consideration in this rule making. Comments received after the comment period closes will not be considered.

Lafayette County Enterprises is also holding four meetings for the community to get involved and get additional resources. The meetings will be held at 1 and 6 p.m. on December 30, and January 7 at 109 West 19th Street in Higginsville. Anyone wishing to learn more about the impact the DOL’s action could have on sheltered workshops is encouraged to contact Smith at 660-229-5293.