The Farm Labor Equality Act amends New Jersey's labor laws to enhance protections for agricultural workers, particularly minors and farm laborers. The bill establishes new age restrictions, prohibiting the employment of minors under 12 years until December 31, 2024, after which the minimum age will rise to 14. It also sets working hour limitations for minors under 18 and allows 17-year-olds who have graduated from vocational school to work in their field of study under specific conditions. Additionally, the bill introduces changes to minimum wage and overtime regulations, ensuring that farm workers will receive overtime pay starting January 1, 2025, and that the minimum wage will increase to $13.40 by that date, with further adjustments planned through 2030.

Moreover, the bill strengthens labor rights for agricultural workers by establishing a framework for employee representation and collective bargaining. It mandates that employers provide employee organizations with access to contact information and allows these organizations to meet with employees on-site. The legislation also addresses unfair labor practices, ensuring that agricultural employers cannot interfere with employees' rights to organize. Furthermore, it clarifies unemployment benefits eligibility for individuals affected by disabilities and modifies definitions related to agricultural labor for unemployment compensation purposes. Overall, the Farm Labor Equality Act aims to create a more equitable environment for farmworkers by aligning their rights with those of other workers in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:2-21.15, 34:11-56, 34:13A-5.1