California lawmakers are considering Assembly Bill 247, which would raise the hourly wage of inmate firefighters to $19. Currently working in dire conditions, these inmates earn only $5.80 to $10.24 per day. With more than 1,100 inmates making up 30% of the state's wildfire fighting force, the bill has garnered support from numerous advocates and public figures. The proposed wage hike, however, could impose substantial fiscal burdens on counties, highlighting ongoing debates about fair compensation for these essential workers.
They put themselves on the front lines," said Assemblymember Isaac G. Bryan, emphasizing the need for fair compensation for inmate firefighters.
More than 1,100 inmates have historically made up 30% of the California wildfire force, receiving a meager daily wage ranging between $5.80 to $10.24.
Advocates and public figures, including John Legend and Kim Kardashian, have voiced their support for initiatives to ensure better pay for inmate firefighters.
Implementing the proposed pay raise would require tens of millions from the state budget annually, which raises concerns regarding fiscal strain on counties.
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