What are the laws governing farm labor?

Farm labor laws in Texas govern the relationship between employers and agricultural employees. Employers must ensure proper wages and working conditions for their agricultural employees. The Texas Payday Law requires agricultural employers to pay their workers at least the minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. If employers pay their workers based on piece rates, they must also pay them separately for waiting time. They must also provide employees with rest and meal breaks as required by law. Agricultural employers are also required to make sure their workers receive proper compensation for overtime hours worked. According to the Texas Overtime Law, employers must pay workers an overtime rate of 1.5 times their regular rate when they work more than 40 hours in a work week. Workers’ compensation benefits are also available to agricultural employees. If injured on the job, they are entitled to receive medical benefits and, in some cases, lost wages. Employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance or be self-insured to cover these benefits. It is also important for agricultural employers to be aware of federal labor laws. For example, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) protects workers from child labor, sets standards for minimum wage and overtime pay, and provides requirements concerning record-keeping. Additionally, employers must comply with the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (MSPA) which establishes labor standards and employment rights for migrant and seasonal workers. Agricultural employers in Texas have a responsibility to create a safe working environment for their employees and comply with applicable labor laws. Doing so can help ensure better working conditions for their employees, and protect them from potential legal action.

What are the laws governing farm labor?

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