WASHINGTON, DC—The U.S. House of Representatives is preparing to vote on a bill that would require U.S. employers to give their employees each a pat on the head, some verbal praise, and possibly a piece of candy at the end of every shift.
The proposal, which is being called the "Good Job" bill, will be put before the House by a group of democratic lawmakers, and comes as a part of efforts to improve the work experience of American workers. "It's not just enough to raise the minimum wage," said Sharice Davids (D-KS). "We also want employees to feel like they are doing a good job, and like their employers enjoy having them around."
In order to bring this about, the bill would require that, at the end of each worker's shift, their direct supervisor or person who makes decisions regarding that worker's standing in the company, look the employee directly in the eyes for at least a full second while stating in sincere tones, "Good job," or something related to it, like "You worked really hard today," "That was a good hussle," or "You've come a long way, Champ."
Additionally, the bill requires that the employer thereafter or during the verbal praise, also pat the worker on the head, or, if such physical contact is unwelcome by the employee, the employer may simply offer a "two thumbs up" hand gesture. The bill specifically stipulates that both the verbal and physical gestures are required.
The bill also specifically states that these new benefits are not to be replaced with wage increases or bonuses, but those may be used in addition to "help employees feel happy and comfortable in their jobs."
"We have reached a point that a job really shouldn't just be a place where a person earns a wage in exchange for their labor or skill," said Davids. "A job should be a place of validation, mutual respect, and protection from the harsh realities of the world."
The vote is expected to occur some time next week.
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