Earlier this month, the California State Assembly passed a new Domestic Workers Bill of Rights which would require employers of domestic workers over the age of 18 to pay their employees minimum wage and overtime, among other requirements. The bill, which is known as "The Babysitter's Bill," is expected to pass the California state Senate when it comes up for a vote in January.

Despite the name, the bill applies to a variety of domestic workers, such as housekeepers, caregivers, and yes, nannies and babysitters. In addition to the elements of the bill affecting employees' pay, the bill would also require California employers to provide workers' compensation coverage, as well as meal and other break periods, to employees.

There would be significant penalties for employees who do not comply with the bill, including back pay, attorney's fees and other legal expenses, with a maximum penalty of $4,000.

In defense of the bill, Democratic Assemblyman Tom Ammiano says that it would not apply to relatives or "casual babysitters." However, the bill has come under criticism from parents and employer advocates who claim that the bill will add significant logistical and financial burdens on busy parents. For example, it is difficult to see how a nanny could get the required 30-minute lunch break and 10-minute rest breaks (required for every five hours worked) when they are watching children for eight or more hours when their parents are at work.

What do you think? Is this bill a good idea or will it create too much trouble for parents and other employers of domestic workers?

Source: HRMorning.com, "Potential benefits for CA caregivers: Workers' comp, OT," Christian Schnappel, Sept. 9, 2011