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Bill

SD 1980

An Act to prohibit mandatory overtime

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Julian Cyr and 6 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill prohibits employers from mandating overtime work, affecting worker scheduling rights and employer operational flexibility across industries.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 1980

Legislative bill overview

SD 1980 would prohibit employers from mandating employees to work overtime hours against their will. The bill establishes limits on employer authority to require extended work schedules beyond standard employment agreements. This applies broadly across industries unless specific exemptions are carved out in the legislation.

Why is this important

Mandatory overtime restrictions directly affect working conditions for hundreds of thousands of Massachusetts employees, particularly in healthcare, manufacturing, and service sectors where the practice is common. The policy intersects with worker wellbeing (fatigue, work-life balance), employer operational flexibility, and labor market competitiveness. Implementation could reshape staffing models and labor costs across affected industries.

Potential points of contention

  • Healthcare workforce concerns: Hospitals and care facilities argue mandatory overtime is essential for patient safety and continuity of care; restricting it could create staffing gaps during emergencies or peak demand periods
  • Small business operational impact: Employers claim reduced scheduling flexibility increases labor costs and forces hiring additional staff, potentially raising prices for consumers
  • Worker income effects: Some employees voluntarily work overtime for additional pay; a ban could reduce earning opportunities for those who prefer extra hours, creating unintended equity issues
  • Exemption definitions: How broadly exemptions are written (emergency services, healthcare, critical infrastructure) will determine the bill's actual scope and effectiveness

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

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