In the fight for fair wages, Jewelyn Cosgrove, Vice President of Government and Public Relations at Melwood, is leading the charge to end the outdated 14C policy. She joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the policy and Melwood’s efforts to restore dignity and economic independence to disabled workers.
At 14, Cosgrove took a stand against statewide assessment testing, igniting a passion for policy advocacy that would shape her career. Today, she channels that fervor into her role at Melwood, a leading employer of people with disabilities. Her commitment to fair wages and equal opportunities drives her in the fight against the exploitation of disabled workers.
Early in December, the Biden Administration announced a proposal to eliminate the 14C policy that Cosgrove believes is outdated. Established in the 1930s, this policy allowed employers to pay disabled workers less than the minimum wage, based on productivity assessments. Cosgrove highlighted the flaws in this system, noting that it perpetuates discrimination and undervalues the contributions of disabled individuals. Her advocacy for the elimination of 14C is rooted in the belief that every worker deserves fair compensation, regardless of their abilities.
Navigating the legislative landscape to abolish 14C is complex, but Cosgrove emphasized the importance of bipartisan support and collaboration. She advised organizations to build robust support systems for employees, such as job coaching and career development, to foster an inclusive workplace.
Listen to the full episode for a deeper dive into how Melwood is paving the way for a more equitable future for all workers.