DOWNEY – Downey’s City Council received an update Tuesday on the implementation of the healthcare worker minimum wage passed two weeks ago.

The City Council voted 4-0 on July 12 to implement a $25 per hour minimum wage for eligible healthcare workers working in the city’s private hospitals, facilities, and clinics.

According to city officials, 198 businesses in the city of Downey will be affected by the new ordinance, which goes into effect on Aug. 11.

While city staff continue to sort through many of the logistics of the ordinance’s implementation and enforcement, several steps have already been taken to prepare those businesses involved, officials said.

An informational webpage – www.downeyca.org/healthcare - was created. Businesses are also being encouraged to email the city at hcwage@downeyca.org with their questions.

The city is also in discussions with the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer Business Affairs on the enforcement process, including services, budget, and the possible implementation of penalty fees.

A legal notice to be displayed at the affected businesses was sent out last week, and is also available on the webpage.