Bill > SB121

This bill establishes that beginning January 1, 2027, agricultural employers in Colorado must pay agricultural employees overtime for any hours worked exceeding 56 in a workweek, with certain exceptions. These exceptions include employees principally engaged in the range production of livestock on the open range and "decision-making managers" who meet specific criteria, such as being paid at least a certain salary threshold, not being employed on a seasonal or temporary basis, and having primary duties requiring independent judgment and discretion, either by supervising at least two full-time employees or reporting to an executive-level employee who reports to an owner. The bill also amends existing laws to increase penalties for agricultural employers who repeatedly and willfully fail to pay wages or who misclassify employees, with fines escalating for third or subsequent violations. The term "agricultural employee" and "agricultural employer" are defined by referencing existing statutes, and a "decision-making manager" is defined with specific requirements related to their role, pay, and supervisory responsibilities.