Reduction in OT Threshold for Farm Workers Goes Into Effect Monday

A blue New Holland tractor sprays a green field with pesticides under a hazy sky.
A New Holland tractor applies pesticides to a field, a common practice in modern agriculture.

The New York State Department of Labor is reminding New Yorkers that the phased-in, gradual reduction in the overtime pay threshold for farmworkers will begin on January 1, 2024, with the threshold set at 56 hours per week.

The process will continue with the overtime threshold limit reducing by four hours every other year until reaching 40 hours per week in 2032. This process was officially adopted in February following Commissioner Reardon’s order that adopted the Farm Laborers Wage Board’s report and recommendations in September.

“Our agricultural industry is the backbone of New York, feeding people across the country, and farm workers are an essential piece in that process,” said New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon. “Introducing a phased transition allows farmers the necessary time for adjustments while protecting the farm workers who are a huge part of putting food on New Yorkers tables. These regulations reinforce New York State’s ongoing dedication to its workers.”

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