Overtime Pay for Agricultural Workers: Policy to Practice

Starting January 1, 2023, Oregon employers were required to pay agricultural workers overtime after working 55 hours in one workweek. As of January 1, 2025, agricultural workers are eligible for overtime pay after 48 hours in a workweek. How is an agricultural worker defined? What defines a work week? What are the implications of this new law for workers and employers? In the 2 years since its gradual implementation with full implementation in 2027, what do we know about how this law is working? Has the gradual implementation of the law aided employers in developing policies and practices that soften the potential economic impacts of this law? Some say it could result in agriculture workers making less money. How has this innovation in worker-focused legislation supported the health, safety, well-being of those who work in this industry?

Host or Publisher Oregon Healthy Workforce Center