Albany, – NY – A New York State Farm Laborers Wage Board has been convened regarding overtime work for farm laborers in the State. To ensure that labor has a seat at the table, former president of the New York State AFL-CIO Denis Hughes has been appointed to serve on this important board.
Under the Farm Laborers Fair Labor Practices Act, farmworkers are entitled to overtime pay for any work they perform in excess of 60 hours per week, and for work performed on their designated day of rest. As part of that act, the wage board will conduct hearings and make recommendations regarding overtime work issues.
“We worked hard to ensure this bill included the proper labor protections and benefits that our farm laborers are entitled to,” Commissioner Roberta Reardon said. “We have an opportunity to improve the quality of life for tens of thousands of farmworkers. Overtime is a key component and we need to get it right.”
On July 17, 2019, the governor signed the Farm Workers Bill. The legislation established the Farm Laborers Fair Labor Practices Act to protect farmworker rights and ensure equitable housing and working conditions. The bill grants farm laborers overtime pay, a day of rest each week, disability and Paid Family Leave coverage. Current law also provides unemployment benefits and other labor protections.
