Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C-Ballston) joined her Minority Conference colleagues to write a letter to Gov. Hochul and Labor Commissioner Reardon urging them not to adhere to the 40-hour overtime recommendation made by the Farm Laborer’s Wage Board. Family farms in New York, which make up 98% of the state’s farms, will be put into a financial vise by lowering the threshold from 60 to 40 hours, causing many to go out of business.

“While we want all workers to receive a fair wage, we can’t ignore the uniqueness of farming, which is greatly dependent on the growing season and weather,” said Walsh.

“This is why I am proud to join my colleagues in calling on Gov. Hochul and Labor Commissioner Reardon to reject the recommendation made by the wage board. The power rests in their hands and they can keep the current overtime threshold of 60 hours in place.

“If the decision is to move forward with this restriction then farmers will no doubt move to other nearby states that offer a more conducive environment for this industry and this area of our economy will be left to suffer. It cannot be stressed enough – no farms means no food and our local farmers need our support now more than ever.”