For Immediate Release
Contact Information
Cynthia Santana
Phone: 206-256-5219
Email: cynthia.santana@seattle.gov
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Seattle Office of Labor Standards Awards Hand In Hand Six-Month $60,000 Contract for Domestic Worker Hiring Entity-Employer Outreach and Education
Seattle, WA (November 25, 2024) – The Office of Labor Standards (OLS) announces Seattle organization Hand In Hand is awarded $60,000 in funding to expand outreach, education, and technical assistance to domestic worker hiring entities and employers in Seattle regarding their obligations under the Domestic Worker Ordinance and the Paid Sick and Safe Time Ordinance, as well as other ordinances relevant to domestic workers.
Hand In Hand was chosen over several organizations that applied to the request for proposal. The six-month contracting period begins December 2024.
“Hand In Hand is thrilled to be chosen to educate Seattle’s domestic employers about their obligations under the Paid Sick and Safe Leave law. The ability to take paid time off to care for oneself or a loved one is a fundamental right every worker should have. Paid sick time also protects the unnecessary exposure and spread of illnesses to domestic employers, care consumers, and their families. It’s a win-win for all,” said Hand In Hand Executive Director, Stacy Kono.
Due to the advocacy of the Domestic Workers Standards Board (DWSB) and Domestic Workers Coalition, OLS received this one-time allocation of $60,000 for Fiscal Year 2024 to provide funding to a community organization to increase hiring entity-employers’ awareness and their responsibilities under applicable Seattle labor laws.
“This law is unique in that it specifically covers people working in and around homes and with families. It is crucial for hiring entities/employers to understand their responsibilities under the Domestic Workers Ordinance. Our partnership with Hand In Hand will provide them with the knowledge and resources to ensure they comply with the relevant laws that protect domestic workers’ rights,” said OLS Director Steven Marchese.
To learn more about the domestic worker hiring entity-employer outreach and education contract click here. For information on Seattle Domestic Workers Ordinance please click here. To learn more about the DWSB and its recommendations for improving the working conditions of domestic workers click here.
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