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HB 5256

Relating to wages of persons with disabilities

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Pushkin

HB 5256 addresses wages for West Virginia workers with disabilities, with specific policy changes pending committee review and public debate.

To House Health and Human Resources
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Bill Summary · HB 5256

Legislative bill overview

HB 5256 relates to wages for persons with disabilities in West Virginia, though the specific provisions are not detailed in the available legislative history. The bill was introduced on February 5, 2026, and has been referred to both the Health and Human Resources Committee and the Judiciary Committee for review.

Why this is important

Wage policy for individuals with disabilities directly affects their economic independence, quality of life, and labor market participation. This legislation could impact sub-minimum wage provisions (such as those under Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act), employment protections, or wage standards for disabled workers—issues affecting thousands of West Virginians.

Potential points of contention

  • Sub-minimum wage debate: Whether the bill maintains, eliminates, or reforms Section 14(c) certificates that allow employers to pay disabled workers below minimum wage is likely contentious between disability rights advocates (who oppose sub-minimum wages) and some employers/service providers (who claim cost concerns).
  • Implementation costs: Changes to disability wage structures could increase costs for employers, nonprofits, and state agencies, raising questions about feasibility and funding.
  • Definition and scope: Disagreement may arise over which disabilities qualify for coverage and whether protections apply uniformly across public and private employers.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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