December 27, 2000

 

MINUTES of PUBLIC MEETING AND HEARING

OF THE

INDUSTRIAL WELFARE COMMISSION

December 5, 2000

Sacramento

 

In accordance, with Labor Code Sections 1173, 1178.5 and 1182, the Industrial Welfare Commission ("IWC") held a public meeting and hearing on December 5, 2000, in Sacramento, at the State Capitol, Room 4203, to consider testimony and any other information presented regarding the wages, hours, and working conditions of sheep herders as well as an exemption for certain public employees, now covered in Wage Order 14.

Chairman Bill Dombrowski opened the meeting/hearing at 10:05 a.m. Commissioners Barry Broad, Doug Bosco, and Harold Rose were present. The IWC's staff, including, Executive Officer Andrew Baron, Analyst Nikki Verrett, Associate Governmental Program Analyst Doug McConkie, Management Services Technician Traci Pilgrim, as well as the IWC's legal counsel, Deputy Attorney General Marguerite Stricklin, were also present.

Commissioner Broad moved to approve the minutes from the October 23rd meeting. Commissioner Rose seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.

Commissioner Bosco stated that, during hearings on whether the exemption from the minimum wage for sheep herders should be retained, it became clear that the wages paid to sheep herders may be inadequate to supply the cost of proper living, that the hours of work or conditions of labor may be prejudicial to the health, safety, morals, or welfare of sheep herders, and that since sheep herders are currently totally exempt from Wage Order 14, further inquiry should be made. Commissioner moved to make a finding pursuant to Labor Code §§ 1178 and 1178.5, to call a Wage Board regarding sheep herders and solicit nominations for Wage Board members, and to direct IWC staff to prepare a charge for the Wage Board. Commissioner Broad seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Broad move to deny the petition requesting the adoption of an amendment to Wage Order 14 calling for a new, total exemption for public employees from that Order, and possible action thereon. Commissioner Rose seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

After the IWC determined that no one present wished to give further testimony, it was agreed by common consent to adjourn the public meeting at 10:15 a.m. Commissioner Rose moved to adjourn. Commissioner Broad seconded. Motion was unanimously passed.

 

Respectfully Submitted,

 

________________________

Andrew R. Baron

Executive Officer

Approved:

 

____________________________________

Bill Dombrowski, Chairperson