The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) on Wednesday, February 23 announced the adoption of the final farm labor overtime regulations, codifying Commissioner Roberta Reardon’s order that accepted the Farm Laborers Wage Board’s report and recommendations in September. The phased-in, gradual reduction in the overtime pay threshold will begin on Jan. 1, 2024, with the threshold set at 56 hours. The process will continue with the overtime threshold limit reducing by four hours every other year until reaching 40 hours in 2032. “These new regulations ensure equity for farm workers, who are the very backbone of our agriculture sector,” Reardon said. “By implementing a gradual transition, we are giving farmers time to make the appropriate adjustments. These new regulations advance New York state’s continued commitment to workers while protecting our farms.”
