Bill > LD589

This bill amends Maine's labor laws to gradually extend overtime protections to agricultural workers and workers in agriculture-related activities. Currently exempt from overtime regulations, these workers will now be subject to a phased implementation of overtime pay. Starting January 1, 2026, workers in agriculture and related activities will receive 1.5 times their regular hourly rate for hours worked over 50 per week. In 2027, the overtime threshold will drop to 45 hours per week, and by 2028, workers will receive overtime pay for any hours worked beyond 40 in a week. "Certain activities related to agriculture" are specifically defined to include processing, preserving, storing, packing, and distributing agricultural produce, meat and fish products, and perishable foods. The bill defines the regular hourly rate as including all earnings, bonuses, commissions, and other compensation based on actual work performed, excluding certain federal exemptions. This legislation aims to provide agricultural workers with more equitable compensation and protections similar to workers in other industries, recognizing the demanding and essential nature of agricultural labor.

Labor and Employment

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=589&snum=132