ISSA Opposes DOL’s Overtime Rule Change, Citing Industry Strain

ISSA has voiced strong opposition to the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) proposed changes regarding overtime exemptions. On November 6, ISSA submitted a comprehensive response to Acting Secretary Julie A. Su, detailing the potential negative impacts on the cleaning industry.

ISSA’s Government Affairs Director, John Nothdurft, highlighted the current labor shortages and high demand for cleaning services and products. The association criticized the DOL’s proposal for potentially exacerbating labor and market pressures, which could lead to unmet service demands and financial burdens on businesses. The proposed rule, according to ISSA, could drive up costs for maintaining facility cleanliness, reduce access to professional development, and may lead to employing lesser-trained workers to cut costs.

The association’s survey revealed that 86% of members anticipate higher costs, while 62% expect reduced opportunities for professional advancement. ISSA is also concerned about the lack of provision for public commentary on automatic updates to the rule, which could overlook economic fluctuations. Nothdurft’s conclusion was unequivocal: The proposal, if enacted, could jeopardize public health, customer contracts, and the broader economy. ISSA urges the DOL to discard the rule to prevent these adverse outcomes.