Seattle United Nannies
On July 27th, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan signed a Domestic Workers’ Bill of Rights. While the effort to expand the rights of workers in often-marginalized industries was commendable, the final content and text of the bill simply do not do enough.
That’s why nannies who work in Seattle have joined together to form the Seattle United Nannies. Together, we’re pushing for follow-up legislation that will better protect nannies and all domestic workers. We want Seattle’s Domestic Workers’ Bill of Rights to be a model for other cities and we’re putting in the work to make it one.
Our Current Goals
Funding for Enforcement of Protections
The current legislation includes no funding to enforce protections. The Office of Labor Standards is already overwhelmed. Without funding, protections are meaningless.
Stronger Sick Day Protections
You shouldn’t be pressured to work when you’re sick. Our state requires sick days be provided, and you should be able to use them freely without fear of being fired or a hostile work environment.
Pregnancy Protection
It should not be legal for you to be let go for taking state provided parental leave. There should be clear legislation that prevents pregancy discrimation.
Portable Benefits
You deserve to be able to retire and have your financial future secure. Portable benefits accounts would allow families to contribute to retirement funds throughout your career. They would also allow those with multiple employers to get access to healthcare.
Protections For Live In Nannies
There should be a maximum daily rent that your family can charge you. Room and board expenses should not result in pay that is below minimum wage. Your living space should be private.
Worker's Compensation Insurance for Injuries
Families should be required to purchase worker’s compensation insurance or be personally liable for costs if an employee is injured at work. You should not be responsible for an injury you couldn’t control.
Secure Scheduling
If your nanny family cancels your shift the night before, you should still get paid. You don’t have a chance to seek other work if they have reserved your time and promised payment.
Resources
Understanding Washington’s New Paid Family and Medical Leave Program
The new Washington state Paid Family and Medical Leave program is a super exciting new benefit for workers throughout the state. But decoding a program like this can be tricky for nannies and other domestic workers who have unusual employment situations. We tried to...
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hello@seattleunitednannies.org