Rep. Jamaal Bowman introduced a new resolution on Sunday to expand wages and benefits for caretakers, including day care workers and elderly caregivers.

Bowman said at a conference in Co-Op City that this is a national resolution and part of the renewed push to raise minimum wage around the country, which is currently $15 an hour in New York.

"Home health aides are making an average of $17,000 per year," Bowman said. "Who can survive on $17,000 per year?"

Local caretakers also spoke about the challenges they've faced during the pandemic.

Rep. Bowman said it's an issue that hits close to home for residents in Co-Op City.

"This is the largest naturally occurring retirement community in the world," he said. "I'm tired of the people of Co-Op City being looked at or being marginalized and not being centered in our political conversation."

Rep. Bowman said he will be introducing the resolution at the Capitol Monday.