Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB10388

Caption

To amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 regarding the application of wage and hour provisions to minor league baseball players, and for other purposes.

Impact

If enacted, HB 10388 would result in a significant shift in the labor landscape for minor league baseball players. Currently, many of these athletes are classified in a manner that allows teams to pay them well below the federal minimum wage, often citing unique circumstances of sports contracts. By reclassifying their status under the Fair Labor Standards Act, the bill would directly influence how these players are compensated, potentially leading to higher wages, better working conditions, and improved labor rights for those involved in minor league baseball.

Summary

House Bill 10388, known as the 'Fair Ball Act', aims to amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 specifically concerning minor league baseball players. The bill intends to redefine how wage and hour provisions apply to these athletes, making significant adjustments to their eligibility under the existing labor standards. By addressing the unique circumstances of minor league players, the bill seeks to ensure that they receive fair compensation and are afforded the basic protections enjoyed by other categories of workers under federal law.

Contention

The bill has sparked notable contention among various stakeholders within the sports and labor communities. Supporters argue that this amendment is a crucial step in acknowledging the hard work and dedication of minor league players, who often struggle financially despite the significant revenue generated by the teams they represent. Conversely, opponents may voice concerns regarding the financial implications for minor league teams, suggesting that increased labor costs could jeopardize the viability of these franchises and the future of minor league baseball. This conflict highlights the broader debate surrounding labor protections and the economics of the sports industry.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB1319

To amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 and the National Labor Relations Act to clarify the standard for determining whether an individual is an employee, and for other purposes.

US HB785

To amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to require paid rest breaks for certain construction employees, and for other purposes.

US HB5513

To amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 and the National Labor Relations Act to clarify the standard for determining whether an individual is an employee, and for other purposes.

US SB3018

A bill to amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 and the National Labor Relations Act to clarify the standard for determining whether an individual is an employee, and for other purposes.

US HB3662

Labor Income Fairness and Transparency Act

US HB10428

To support and fund the Federal procurement of clean energy products, and for other purposes.

US HB122

Original Living American Wage Act or the Original LAW ActThis bill increases the federal minimum wage according to a formula specified in the bill.First, the bill increases the minimum hourly wage to $10.59 beginning on January 1, 2026, and increases the minimum hourly wage by $4 annually from January 1, 2027, through January 1, 2030.Next, beginning on January 1, 2031, the Department of Labor shall increase the minimum hourly wage every seven years according to a specified formula. The formula establishes the minimum hourly wage as the wage sufficient for a person working 1,799 hours per year (approximately 35 hours per week) to earn an annual income that is 40% higher than the federal supplemental poverty threshold for a renter family of four, with two children under the age of 18, as published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for the preceding year. However, if this formula results in a reduction, the minimum hourly wage may not be lowered. 

US HB10448

To combat loneliness and increase social connection, and for other purposes.

US SB1959

A bill to protect integrity, fairness, and objectivity in decisions regarding access to classified information, and for other purposes.

US HB10508

To amend the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to support the responsible development of offshore renewable energy projects, establish the Offshore Power Administration, and for other purposes.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.