Members of Western United Dairymen’s Legislative Committee visited Sacramento last week to educate legislators and key staff on legislation of interest to California dairy families. Committee members joined with WUD’s Director of Government Relations Gary Conover and CEO Michael Marsh to explain WUD’s position on various proposed state legislation.
WUD is actively opposing the following legislation:
* Ag overtime bill AB 1313 by Assemblyman Michael Allen (D-Santa Rosa.) This bill is currently being considered in the Senate and would repeal the longstanding 10-hour daily overtime requirement for agricultural employees.
* Assembly Bill 2346 authored by Betsy Butler (D-Torrance) increases penalties against employers, creates stiffer requirements for water and shade and allow workers to sue their employer for not following the law. The bill also would make growers responsible for violations committed by farm labor contractors they hire.
* AB 2676 by Assemblyman Charles Calderon (D-City of Industry) applies criminal sanctions for employers whose mistreatment of farm workers causes their deaths or illnesses from exposure to extreme heat.
Legislative Committee members attending were Jerry Renner, Ray Souza, Tom Barcellos, George Simoes and Stephen Brown. “This was a great opportunity for our members to talk directly with legislators and key staff people to let them know how this proposed legislation will directly impact California dairy families,” said Legislative Committee Chair Ray Souza. “This is one of the most important functions our trade association provides to our members. It is critical that we continue to make our voices heard in Sacramento.” Aug. 10, 2012 WUD Friday Update