An Act To Establish A State Minimum Hourly Wage For Agricultural Workers

This bill establishes a minimum hourly wage for agricultural workers in Maine, setting the rate at $14.15 per hour for those paid by the hour starting September 1, 2024. The law requires that this wage increase annually based on the Consumer Price Index to keep pace with inflation, while also ensuring it never falls below the federal minimum wage. Additionally, the bill sets a separate minimum hourly rate of $10 for agricultural employees who are paid by the piece rather than by the hour. The legislation also removes a provision that previously guaranteed confidentiality for information collected under the new wage rules.