Illinois Legislature OKs wage increase for home-care workers

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Illinois lawmakers have approved wage increases for tens of thousands of home-care workers in three different programs.

The plans all go to Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner despite GOP lawmakers' complaints about increased spending without a budget plan.

The Senate approved a $15-an-hour wage Tuesday for about 34,000 workers who care for developmentally disabled residents in their homes. Democratic Sen. Heather Steans (STAYNZ') of Chicago says it would cost $330 million - half federal money.

Lawmakers on Monday approved raising wages of workers who care for low-income seniors to at least $15 hourly over four years at a cost of more than $1 billion.

The third plan was approved two weeks ago. Workers helping physically disabled residents would get at least $15 hourly.

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The bills are HB5764 and HB5931.

Online: http://www.ilga.gov