I feel that Certified Nursing Assistant's deserve a standard pay at a rate $16 an hour or higher. As a Nursing Assistant you take college courses and state testing to achieve your certifications. A Nursing Assistant has to pay yearly for keeping their certifications up, in Washington State it's $95.00 a year. You have to take 12 hours of yearly courses as well as keeping your immunizations up to date, which are extra fees. 

The work is very demanding physically, mentally and emotionally. You have people's lives in your hands on a daily basis. In Facility's you work with illnesses such as covid, these Nursing Assistant's put their health on the line. I strongly feel that especially in home care should pay more then $15 an hour. That is wear and tear on their vehicle's on a daily basis. I strongly feel passionate about this cause. I feel that these people do a huge amount for the elderly, right now with covid the CNAs are all the people have as many can't see their families. The CNA's not only give physical care but compassion companion care. While wearing full Personal Protective Gear all through their shifts. These CNA'S make sure they stay healthy for the people they care for. I strongly feel CNA's deserve a standard pay of $16 an hour and over depending on the care facilities. I am passionate about this cause. This petition goes out especially to the smaller counties in Washington State. I feel the bigger cities pay more but the smaller counties pay so little for their CNA's. 

Thank you