Fighting for Fair Pay: Immigrant Caregivers Sue for Justice

In Santa Clara County, a serious legal battle is unfolding. A group of immigrant caregivers has taken a stand against a home care business and its owners for unfair treatment. They claim they were paid very little, often less than $5 per hour, which is far below the state minimum wage. They also say they were not given proper breaks or overtime pay. This is not just about money; it's about respect and basic rights. The case involves three people and a business called Safejourney Transport LLC, also known as Happy Trip Home Care. They are accused of taking advantage of immigrant workers who provide live-in care for elderly people. These workers have tough jobs, helping with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and meals. They work long hours, but they say they are not treated fairly. The county is asking a court to stop these practices immediately. They also want the business to pay back the workers for the wages they should have received. The county says the business and its owners worked together to break the law. They even opened bank accounts in workers' names without permission and took their passports and bank cards. This is not an isolated issue. Many caregivers, especially immigrants, face similar problems. They often do not know their rights or fear losing their jobs if they speak up. The county offers free legal help for workers and businesses to understand their rights and responsibilities. The situation is made worse by national policies that create fear in immigrant communities. Workers are scared to report abuse because they worry about their immigration status. This leaves them vulnerable to exploitation. The county is stepping in to enforce the law and protect these workers. This case highlights a bigger problem in the home care industry. Many workers are women in their 60s and 70s, often with their own health issues. They face isolation and stress while living in the homes they care for. They deserve better treatment and fair pay for their hard work.