SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Illinois officials have delayed for a second time a cost-saving policy capping overtime pay for home health care aides.

The Department of Human Services told The Associated Press on Monday another grace period will allow officials to negotiate and clarify conditions with the union that represents 25,000 home workers.

Thousands of employees who help about 30,000 people with physical and developmental disabilities are eligible for time-and-a-half pay after working 40 hours a week under a federal law that took effect Jan. 1.

Gov. Bruce Rauner’s administration announced in November it would limit overtime hours starting March 1 to save $7 million a year. But the Service Employees International Union says it will mean service disruption and unpredictability for clients.

Officials say they don’t know how long the cost-saving policy will be delayed.

 

 

 

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