Impacts of AB 1066 (CA Ag Overtime law) on California Sheep Industry
Effective January 1, 2019, the California Department of Industrial Relations made significant changes to the rules governing overtime and hourly wages for agricultural workers.
In 2001, the Industrial Welfare Commission (IWC), recognizing the unique nature of sheepherding work and the long history of specialized California law pertaining to that work, adopted sheepherder amendments exempting this occupation from the overtime and hourly wage regulations.
The 2019 amended wage order removes the sheepherder exemption even though sheepherders are subject to special exemptions in federal immigration and labor laws/regulations. As a result of the amended wage order, the California sheep industry may cease to exist.
Sheepherder Administrative Relief OptionsFour-Legged Fire Fighters Help Save California Communities from Wildfire – Dan Macon, CWGA President
CWGA Letter to the Governor – November 2019Update on Legislative Efforts – September 11, 2019
Overtime Due for Sheepherders Under AB 1066 Calculations Handout
Farm Labor Employment Services Sheepherder Calcultions Handout
Dept. of Industrial Relations Application of AB 1066’s Overtime Phase-In to Sheepherders
AB 1066 Impacts on California Sheep Industry Handout
Sheepherder Program Breakdown of Mandatory Benefits Cost
Sheep on Rangelands – Fuel Reduction & Carbon Cycling Handout
CWGA Letter to the Governor – July 2019
Overtime for Agricultural Workers – Frequently Asked Questions
Call to Action
To review current industry call to actions and issue briefs click here.
The California Wool Growers Association works with the American Sheep Industry in representing the interests of all producers on a national level.
Animal Care & Welfare
Farmers and ranchers who raise sheep in California take great pride in the care they provide for their animals and do not condone or defend mistreatment or abuse of sheep either intentionally or unintentionally. These principles hold true for all management practices. Sheep producers are committed to making sure their animals are treated humanely. Not only is that the right thing to do, but anything less would be self-defeating.
To read the CWGA Animal Care & Welfare Statement click here.
