With the onset of the New Year, it's essential for employers across all Member states, including those in the high-tech greenhouse sector, to stay informed about the updates in minimum wage increases and the final phase-in of California's agriculture overtime provisions.
In Arizona, starting January 1, 2025, the minimum wage will be adjusted to $14.70 per hour, in line with the Fair Wages and Healthy Families Act. This Act mandates annual adjustments based on the cost of living. Notably, Tucson and Flagstaff have set their minimum wages at $15.00 and $17.85 per hour respectively for 2025. There are specific exemptions to this rule, including employment by a parent or sibling, or employment in a small business with annual revenues below $500,000. Employers are required to display updated wage rate posters in both Spanish and English, available on the Industrial Commission's Labor website.
California will see its minimum wage increase to $16.50 per hour by January 1, 2025. This state also has various local minimum wage ordinances. The same date also marks the completion of the phase-in for agricultural overtime provisions, aligning overtime rules with other industries in California. For employers with 25 or fewer employees, overtime rates apply after 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week, with double pay required after 12 hours in a workday. Updated notice posters are accessible on the Department of Labor Standards and Enforcement website.
Colorado's minimum wage will rise to $14.81 per hour by January 1, 2025. Denver and Boulder have established their own rates. The state has specific overtime rules, with overtime payable after 48 hours per week, or 56 hours during peak weeks for highly seasonal employers. Compliance posters are available on the Department of Labor and Employment's website.
New Mexico's minimum wage remains unchanged at $12.00 per hour since January 1, 2023. However, local ordinances may dictate higher wages. Employers must display the latest wage and hour notice posters, available on the Department of Workforce Solutions website.
For further details on these changes, high-tech greenhouse growers are advised to consult the respective state websites or contact Western Growers for assistance.
Source: Western Growers