WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SD 927

An Act relative to overtime pay for agricultural laborers

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge and 1 co-sponsor

Summary of SD 927: An Act relative to overtime pay for agricultural laborers OverviewThis proposed bill aims to extend overtime pay requirements to agricultural workers in the stat

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 927

Summary of SD 927: An Act relative to overtime pay for agricultural laborers

Overview

This proposed bill aims to extend overtime pay requirements to agricultural workers in the state. Currently, agricultural laborers are exempt from overtime pay laws, meaning employers are not required to pay them time-and-a-half for hours worked over 40 per week. SD 927 would remove this exemption and bring agricultural workers under the same overtime pay standards as other hourly employees.

Key Provisions

  • Overtime Pay Requirement: The bill would mandate that agricultural employers pay time-and-a-half wages for any hours worked over 40 per week by their laborers.
  • Applicability: This overtime pay rule would apply to all agricultural workers, including those involved in crop farming, livestock production, and other farm-related activities.
  • Exemptions: The bill includes an exemption for small farms with annual gross sales under $500,000, allowing them to continue paying straight-time wages without overtime.
  • Implementation Timeline: The new overtime requirements would take effect 6 months after the bill is signed into law.

Potential Impact

  • Worker Benefits: Agricultural laborers, many of whom work long hours during peak seasons, would see a significant boost in their earnings through the new overtime pay mandate.
  • Farm Business Costs: Larger farming operations would face higher labor costs, which could lead to increased prices for agricultural products or reduced profit margins.
  • Small Farm Exemption: The exemption for small farms is intended to protect these businesses from undue financial strain, though some argue it may create an uneven playing field.
  • Broader Policy Debate: This bill reignites the longstanding debate over whether agricultural workers should receive the same labor protections as other hourly employees.

Conclusion

SD 927 represents a major policy shift that would extend overtime pay requirements to the agricultural sector. While proponents argue it is a necessary step to improve working conditions and compensation for farm laborers, opponents contend it could unduly burden farming businesses, especially smaller operations. As the bill progresses, stakeholders on both sides are likely to engage in vigorous debate over its merits and potential impacts.

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

Sign in to ask a question.