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Panel advances floor to protect farmworker pay; industry warns of steep costs
Summary
AB 26 46 would set a $19.75 hourly wage floor for state-approved agricultural employees with an annual cost‑of‑living adjustment. Farmworkers and unions testified in support; the California Chamber of Commerce, Western Growers and others opposed, citing large estimated costs and potential impacts on production and jobs. The committee voted to refer the bill to Appropriations.
Assemblymember Veil presented AB 26 46, which would establish a sector‑specific minimum hourly wage of $19.75 for state‑approved agricultural employees and related corresponding employees, with an automatic annual cost‑of‑living adjustment.
Ignacio Hernandez, a farmworker from Yolo County who testified in support, described long days, low pay, and two jobs to make ends meet. "We are constantly pushed to move faster and faster," Hernandez said, explaining he took unpaid leave to appear before the committee.
Supporters including Teamsters, California Federation of Labor Unions and legal aid groups said the bill addresses wage theft and chronic low pay in agriculture; advocates urged the committee to include registered apprenticeships and protections for vulnerable workers. Manny and other witnesses cited research on wage theft and disparities for Black and Latino workers in some short‑term credential outcomes when discussing other bills in the same hearing package.
Opponents from the California Chamber of Commerce, Western Growers and trade groups warned AB 26 46 would raise costs dramatically for an industry they estimated would face $256 million to $736 million in additional annual costs and could threaten family farms and food prices. Western Growers argued the bill's definitions could capture H‑2A program work and that differing definitions of "corresponding employee" broaden the bill’s reach.
Members questioned whether the problem is process delay at the Labor Commissioner or inadequate bond and enforcement tools; witnesses and the author indicated the bill contains default‑judgment provisions and bond increases designed to help workers recover unpaid wages more quickly. The committee filed AB 26 46 and referred it to Appropriations, leaving the roll open for absent members.
What happens next: AB 26 46 will be reviewed by Appropriations, where fiscal estimates and potential amendments (including to bond levels, default provisions and definitions of "corresponding employee") are likely to be negotiated.
