The California Senate is working to pass a bill that would require farmers to pay time-and-a-half for workers who work between 40-60 hours a week.
The bill is on Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk waiting for approval, but agriculture groups strongly oppose the suggested bill.
Farm workers are one of the few groups of workers who do not receive overtime until they reach 60 hours a week. Government officials believe they should receive overtime at 40 hours like other industries because they work in hot summer sun and other uncomfortable conditions.
ABC 30 reported that MAPA chapter President Rey Leon said, “I think it’s about time for overtime, at least for farm workers.” Leon believes that current conditions appear similar to slavery.
Farm groups oppose the bill (such as the California Grape and Tree Fruit League) because the new bill would cause smaller paychecks for workers because farmers will hire more workers instead of paying overtime.
There is no indication whether the governor will pass the bill or not.
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