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HD 3795

An Act relative to overtime pay for agricultural laborers in Massachusetts

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Carlos González and 3 co-sponsors

Requires Massachusetts agricultural employers to pay overtime wages (1.5x hourly rate) for hours exceeding 40 per week, extending protections currently denied to farm workers under federal law.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 3795

Legislative bill overview

HD 3795 would extend overtime pay protections to agricultural laborers in Massachusetts, requiring employers to pay time-and-a-half wages for hours worked beyond 40 per week. Currently, federal law exempts agricultural workers from federal overtime requirements, leaving them without these protections that other workers enjoy.

Why is this important

Agricultural laborers in Massachusetts often work seasonal, long hours for relatively low wages. This bill would directly increase compensation for overtime work and potentially improve working conditions in a sector that has historically faced wage and labor standard gaps compared to other industries.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on farms: Agricultural operations, particularly smaller farms with thin profit margins, argue increased labor costs could reduce hiring, raise food prices, or push operations out of state
  • Definitional disputes: Questions about which workers qualify (seasonal vs. year-round, family-run operations, specific farm sizes) and how this interacts with existing state and federal exemptions
  • Competitive disadvantage: Massachusetts farms may face cost pressures compared to agricultural producers in neighboring states without similar requirements, potentially affecting market competitiveness

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

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