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H 2092

An Act clarifying mandatory overtime protections

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Carol Doherty and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill clarifies mandatory overtime rules to strengthen worker protections while establishing clearer legal standards for employer scheduling requirements.

Reporting date extended to Thursday, December 31, 2026
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 2092

Legislative bill overview

H 2092 clarifies Massachusetts' mandatory overtime protections by establishing explicit legal standards for when employers can require employees to work beyond their scheduled hours. The bill aims to strengthen worker protections by defining what constitutes lawful mandatory overtime and under what circumstances employees can refuse such assignments without retaliation.

Why is this important

Mandatory overtime practices vary widely across Massachusetts industries, creating uncertainty for both workers and employers about legal obligations. Clear statutory language protects vulnerable workers—particularly in healthcare, retail, and service sectors—from excessive scheduling demands while helping employers understand enforceable compliance requirements.

Potential points of contention

  • Business operational flexibility: Employers may argue that strict overtime restrictions limit their ability to respond to staffing emergencies, seasonal demands, or unexpected absences, particularly in healthcare and emergency services
  • Worker scheduling predictability vs. business needs: The balance between guaranteeing employees predictable schedules and allowing employers necessary scheduling flexibility remains contested in labor policy debates
  • Scope of exemptions: Disagreement likely exists over which industries or job categories should receive exemptions (healthcare, emergency services, etc.) and whether exemptions are too broad or too narrow

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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