H 1901 Massachusetts House · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act relative to commissioned employees

This bill modifies Massachusetts labor laws to protect employers from liability if they fail to pay required wages or overtime because they relied on a written legal opinion from a state department or agency. Specifically, it allows employers to use a "good faith" defense in court if they acted according to an official interpretation that was in effect at the time of the violation, even if that interpretation is later changed or ruled invalid. The changes apply to employees covered under specific sections of the state's wage and hour statutes and affect both private and public employers. By codifying this defense, the legislation aims to provide clarity and reduce legal risks for businesses that follow official government guidance regarding employee compensation.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
Senate Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action May 15, 2024
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the Senate. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
5
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
Upper · Passed
Senate concurred
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on Labor and Workforce Development
lower
1 primary · 4 co-sponsors

Sponsors