The bill H.403, introduced by Representative Surprenant, aims to enhance labor and housing standards for agricultural workers in Vermont. It proposes to repeal the current exemption of agricultural workers from minimum wage laws, ensuring that they receive at least $12.55 per hour starting January 1, 2022, with annual adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index. Additionally, the bill mandates that agricultural workers receive overtime pay at a rate of one and one-half times their regular wage for hours worked beyond 60 in a week, effective January 1, 2026, unless they are the employer's immediate family.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for inspecting farm employee housing to ensure it meets safety and adequacy standards. The Secretary of Agriculture will conduct inspections and survey farm employees about their housing conditions, with the results submitted to the Division of Fire Safety for further evaluation. If violations of the Vermont Residential Rental Housing Health and Safety Code are found, the Division will provide the employer with an opportunity to comply, and penalties may be imposed for non-compliance. This act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 21-383, 21-384