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ACTION ALERT
Dear Maine Farm Bureau Members,
Tomorrow, the Labor Committee will hold a public hearing on three bills opposed by Farm Bureau. We need your help to oppose LD 357, LD 588, and LD 589. These bills threaten Maine farms by imposing burdensome regulations that ignore agriculture’s unique needs. Here’s what they do:
- LD 357 – State Minimum Hourly Wage for Agricultural Workers: Sets a $14.65/hour minimum wage starting January 2026, with private lawsuit rights for workers. It duplicates protections already in place and adds legal risks for farmers.
- LD 588 – Agricultural Employees Concerted Activity Protection Act: Grants farmworkers rights to publicize complaints and involve third parties, disrupting farm cooperation. It also allows private lawsuits, piling costs on small operations.
- LD 589 – Agricultural Workers Under Wage and Hour Laws: Moves farmworkers into general wage laws, mandating overtime pay (phased in by 2028) and strict rules unfit for seasonal farming.
The Maine Farm Bureau has been advocating for years for a solution that balances a farm minimum wage with protections that protect the unique working environment of Maine’s agricultural industry. These bills miss the mark.
Take Action Now:
- Submit testimony to the Labor committee in opposition to these bills by clicking here.
- Join Us at the Hearing – Tomorrow at the Maine State House at 10 AM.
Maine farmers drive a $3.6 billion economy. These bills risk that legacy with red tape and costs we can’t afford. Act today to protect our future!
Thank you,
David Kent
President, Maine Farm Bureau
dkent7213@gmail.com
207-233-6920
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