Conn. Senate passes care workers union bill
Conn. Senate passes bill that would allow home health care, daycare workers to join unions
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) -- A bill that would allow low-paid daycare and home health care workers in Connecticut to join labor unions is heading to Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's desk after receiving final legislative approval from the state Senate.
The Senate debated the proposal for more than six hours before voting 22-14 in favor of the bill late Thursday night. It previously had passed the House after hours of discussion.
Democrats said the legislation is needed because daycare and personal care attendants are some of the lowest-paid workers in their industries. Republicans cited costs and noted some patients worry that union issues will come between them and their caretakers.
Malloy supported the bill. He signed executive orders allowing the workers to unionize last September. Republicans filed lawsuits alleging Malloy exceeded his authority with the orders.
