ATLANTA — Workers could be required to get their pay from debit cards unless they opt out under legislation approved Wednesday by the Senate.
Opponents say Home Depot is pushing Senate Bill 88, along with a similar House bill, as a way to save money on employees who don’t have bank accounts that can accept direct deposit because of poor credit or lack of long-term residence. Critics note that federal law that caps fees on credit cards doesn’t apply to debit cards.
State and federal law already allow payment to debit cards, but the state legislation is designed to make it automatic if that’s what the employer prefers.
The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Burt Jones, R-Jackson, said workers can still decide not to participate.
“We’ve put some protections in place with this bill for the employee,” he said.
The Republican majority voted down an amendment offered by Democrats that would have not made participation automatic but would have made it up to each worker. Sen. Nan Orrock, D-Atlanta, said nothing should automatically subject low-paid workers to bankers’ quest for fee revenue.
“They’re always getting in the pocket of the little guy,” she said.
Sen. Jesse Stone, R-Waynesboro, said Republicans are showing their own concern for workers.
“Isn’t it true that this bill will help a large number of the labor force avoid those fees?” he asked Jones, who agreed.
The bill now heads to the House.