The bill H.261 proposes the establishment of a 32-hour workweek in Vermont, mandating that employers pay overtime for any hours worked beyond this threshold. Key amendments to existing laws include changing the overtime pay requirement from 40 hours to 32 hours in 21 V.S.A. § 384, which outlines employment wages. Additionally, the bill modifies the maximum work hours for children under 16 years of age from 40 to 32 hours per week, and it adjusts the accrual of earned sick time, changing the threshold from 40 to 32 hours for full-time employees not covered by federal overtime provisions.

Other provisions in the bill include redefining "usual weekly hours of work" in the context of the Short-Time Compensation Program to align with the new 32-hour standard. The bill also specifies that it will take effect on July 1, 2025. Overall, H.261 aims to reshape labor practices in Vermont by reducing the standard workweek and ensuring fair compensation for additional hours worked.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 21-384, 21-437, 21-482, 21-1451