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Bill

HD 2024

An Act to prohibit mandatory overtime

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa and 14 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill prohibiting mandatory overtime, allowing workers to refuse shifts beyond contracts while subjecting violating employers to penalties.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 2024

Legislative bill overview

HD 2024 would prohibit employers from requiring employees to work mandatory overtime, giving workers the right to refuse extra shifts beyond their contracted hours. The bill applies to private sector employers and establishes penalties for violations of this mandate.

Why is this important

Mandatory overtime bans directly affect working conditions for millions of employees, particularly in healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and service industries where overtime is common. This policy influences worker fatigue levels, work-life balance, family time, and potentially workplace safety—while simultaneously affecting employer operational flexibility and labor costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Business operational concerns: Employers argue mandatory overtime restrictions limit scheduling flexibility needed during peak demand, staffing shortages, or emergencies, potentially increasing labor costs and requiring larger permanent workforces
  • Sector-specific impacts: Industries like nursing, emergency services, and retail depend heavily on overtime; restrictions could strain these sectors differently than others, raising questions about exemptions
  • Economic trade-offs: Workers gain schedule control but may lose overtime pay opportunities; employers may reduce base wages or hiring if forced to pay premium rates for voluntary overtime only

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

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