Wage calculations modification for agriculture employees
Impact
With the proposed changes, the calculation of the maximum weekly compensation for agricultural workers would restrict the inclusion of occasional overtime unless it is deemed regular or frequent throughout the year. A new provision is added for workers engaged in agricultural employment for fewer than 30 calendar days annually. Such individuals who also have concurrent employment will have their weekly wage calculated based on either their agricultural income multiplied by five times their daily wage or their income from other employment, whichever is greater. This adjustment is expected to provide a clearer and fairer wage calculation method specifically tailored for the agricultural sector.
Summary
SF1725 is a legislative bill that seeks to modify wage calculations specifically for agricultural employees in Minnesota. The bill amends Minnesota Statutes section 176.011, subdivision 18, clarifying how weekly wages are calculated based on the number of days and fractional days an agricultural worker normally works in the course of their employment. This adjustment is particularly relevant for those who may not work a standard five-day week or who have irregular work schedules over the farming season.
Contention
Discussions surrounding SF1725 indicate a potential for contention regarding the implications for how wages are calculated for seasonal agricultural workers. Advocates for agricultural workers may appreciate the provisions aimed at ensuring that those working fewer than 30 days in the agricultural sector can benefit from a more favorable wage calculation. However, there may also be opposing views concerning how these changes could impact individual employers and the financial burdens they may carry when calculating wages under this new framework. Overall, the bill reflects a balancing act between ensuring equitable compensation for agricultural workers while considering the operational realities of agricultural employers.
Workers' compensation; policy and technical changes made to coverage and hearings, and Workers' Compensation Court of Appeals related provisions modified.