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Bill

SB 6088

Concerning minor league baseball players subject to the terms of a collective bargaining agreement regarding employment status.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Conway and 3 co-sponsors

Washington law classifies minor league baseball players under CBAs as employees entitled to state labor protections, effective June 6, 2024.

Effective date 6/6/2024.
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Bill Summary · SB 6088

Legislative bill overview

SB 6088 establishes employment classification and labor protections for minor league baseball players in Washington State who are covered by a collective bargaining agreement. The bill clarifies that these players are employees entitled to state labor law protections rather than independent contractors, and it became law on June 6, 2024.

Why is this important

Minor league players have historically been classified as non-employees, exempting them from minimum wage, overtime, and other labor protections despite working full-time during baseball seasons. This legislation ensures Washington-based minor league players receive standard employment protections and benefits, addressing a longstanding labor classification gap in professional sports.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry burden: Baseball organizations may face increased labor costs and administrative compliance requirements, potentially affecting minor league operations and employment levels
  • Scope limitations: The bill only applies to players with collective bargaining agreements, leaving non-unionized or independent minor league players potentially unprotected
  • Federal preemption questions: There may be ongoing disputes about whether federal baseball labor law or state employment law takes precedence in application

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

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