Seattle OKs new rights for nannies, domestic workers

SEATTLE (AP) – Nannies, house cleaners and other domestic workers in Seattle will gain new labor protections under legislation passed by city leaders.

The City Council on Monday unanimously approved a so-called “bill of rights” that ensures domestic workers receive minimum wage, rest and meal breaks and other rights.

Eight states have passed similar legislation, including New York, Oregon and Illinois. Seattle is believed to be the first city to do so.

The ordinance will create a panel of employers and workers to come up with recommendations on wage standards, retirement and health care benefits and other issues. It will also prevent employers from keeping a worker’s personal documents.

The new rules will apply to those working in private homes, including independent contractors and part-time workers.

Mayor Jenny Durkan is expected to sign the legislation, and the new protections are scheduled to go into effect on July 1 of next year.

Advocates estimate there are about 33,000 domestic workers in Seattle.