Description
Title: Wage Equity for Human Services Contracts
Summary
Seattle's legislation on wage equity for human services contracts aims to address significant pay disparities within the sector. Under Seattle Municipal Code 3.20.060, inflationary adjustments are mandated for contracts managed by the Human Services Department (HSD). However, the intent is to implement wage equity increases that exceed mere inflation adjustments. A 2022 study by the University of Washington, funded by the City Council, revealed that human services workers earn 37% less than their counterparts in other fields. As a response, in 2023, Resolution 32094 was passed, proposing wage increases of at least 7% by 2025, with substantial adjustments by 2030. The resolution emphasizes collaboration with funders and requires HSD to integrate