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Bill

S 1362

An Act to prohibit mandatory overtime

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Brady and 10 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill prohibits employers from mandating overtime work, allowing only voluntary extended hours with limited exceptions.

Accompanied a study order, see S2931
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Bill Summary · S 1362

Legislative bill overview

S 1362 would prohibit employers in Massachusetts from requiring employees to work overtime beyond their regularly scheduled hours, with limited exceptions. The bill aims to protect workers from involuntary extended work schedules while allowing voluntary overtime arrangements.

Why is this important

Mandatory overtime affects millions of workers' quality of life, health, and family time, particularly in healthcare, manufacturing, and service industries. This legislation would shift power dynamics in employment relationships and could influence staffing practices, labor costs, and worker scheduling across multiple sectors of the Massachusetts economy.

Potential points of contention

  • Business operational concerns: Employers argue mandatory overtime enables workforce flexibility during emergencies, seasonal demand, and staffing shortages; prohibiting it could increase labor costs and require higher baseline staffing levels
  • Healthcare system impact: Hospitals and emergency services claim mandatory overtime is critical for patient safety and emergency response; restrictions could strain these sectors specifically
  • Exception definitions: The bill's scope depends heavily on how "exceptions" are defined (emergencies, public safety, etc.)—overly broad exceptions could undermine protections, while narrow ones could create operational hardship
  • Wage and employment implications: Workers might face reduced hours or hiring freezes if employers adjust compensation strategies; some workers value overtime pay as supplemental income

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

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