Living Wage Overview

In the photo above the Living Wage Advisory Board members gather for a meeting with Chairman John Durso (top row first from left) and Nassau County Comptroller Howard Weitzman (top row, fifth from left).

The Living Wage Law

The Nassau County Living Wage Law took effect on January 1, 2007.  Its purpose is to ensure that employees of companies that Nassau County does business with are earning the living wage, receiving health benefits or a health benefits supplement, and full-time employees receive 12 paid days off a year.

The Current Living Wage

The Living Wage is $13.10 an hour or $11.50 with health benefits. This rate will stay in effect until August 1, 2010, when it will increase to $14.10 or $12.50 with health benefits.

Health Benefits Supplement

Covered employees are entitled to receive either health benefits or a health benefit supplement of $1.60 per hour.

Paid Days Off

Covered full-time employees are entitled to 12 paid days off per year for sick leave, vacation or personal necessity, which may include paid holidays. Part-time employees working 20 hours or more per week also receive compensated days off on a pro rata basis up to a maximum of 12 days including paid holidays. The Law does not require compensated days off for employees working less than 20 hours per week.