NYS Department of Labor reminds New Yorkers of decrease in farm worker overtime threshold

The New York State Department of Labor is reminding New Yorkers that the phased-in, gradual reduction in the overtime pay threshold for farmworkers began Jan. 1, 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 2023 following Commissioner Roberta 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,” Reardon said Friday. "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.”