Ag Wage Bill Passes Washington State Senate

A bill that would allow ag workers and producers to clearly define backpay requirements to fulfill a state Supreme Court ruling passed the Washington State Senate last week.

The bill’s sponsor, 12^th District Republican Brad Hawkins, said in a statement, “The workers would have an expedited opportunity to receive what amounts to back pay, and growers would have a defense against lawsuits currently affecting the tree-fruit industry and the communities that depend on it.”

A 2015 ruling required agriculture workers who are paid in piece-rate wages get separate pay for rest breaks. If producers abide by the standards in the Senate bill, they would be exempt from any lawsuits.

The bill now goes to the House for consideration.

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