Labor Compliance Opportunity for Local Growers

PORTLAND, N.Y.(December 13, 2019) – Labor laws in NYS for farmers will undergo significant changes next year. Farmers that need information about these changes can join the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program (LERGP) at the Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Laboratory (CLEREL) for a presentation on December 23rd, 2019. The presentation will cover over-time, workers’ compensation, paid family leave, unemployment insurance and short-term disability.

Historically labor reform has not applied to most small farms. With this legislation both new and old requirements will apply to small farmers. The unique seasonal nature of farming and labor demands was recognized by New York State. The result was a number of important compromises that will make compliance a little easier. However, these compromises mean that important differences between farm labor and standard labor regulations will continue.

One result of a different standard for farm labor means that compliance with rules will require specialized knowledge. To ensure optimal results for farmers Extension, Cornell researchers, NYS Department of Labor, and Farm Bureau have all been working together to make sure farmers have the information they need.

Farmers should stay tuned next year for more information about labor management strategies to reduce costs associated with new regulations. In addition to educational meetings, web resources are available through Cornell Agricultural Workforce Development. In the meantime, please join us on December 23rd for our Compliance Update.

The Lake Erie Regional Grape Program is one of many programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County (CCE-Chautauqua). CCE-Chautauqua is a community based educational organization, affiliated with Cornell University, Chautauqua County Government, the NYS SUNY system, and the federal government through the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. For more information, call 716-664-9502 or visit our website at www.cce.cornell.edu/chautauqua. Cornell University Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities.

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Last updated December 13, 2019