In a major step toward improving the lives of agricultural workers, Maine Governor Janet Mills has signed a new law that raises the minimum wage for farmworkers in the state.
The law will give farmworkers the same minimum wage protection that most other workers in Maine already receive.
For many years, farmworkers in Maine were not guaranteed the state’s minimum wage. They often worked long hours in physically demanding jobs for much less pay than workers in other industries. With this new law, which will change starting in 2026.
The law was passed by lawmakers earlier this year and signed into law by Gov. Mills this week. It ensures that farmworkers will be paid at least the state’s minimum wage, which is currently $14.15 per hour. This wage could increase in the future as Maine’s minimum wage is adjusted every year based on the cost of living.
This decision came after a lot of debate. Supporters of the bill say that farmworkers are essential to Maine’s economy, especially in the farming, blueberry, and dairy industries. They believe it’s only fair that these workers earn a livable wage for their hard work.
The new law does not apply to all types of farm work. There are some exceptions for small farms and family-run operations. However, the majority of farmworkers in Maine will now be covered under the state’s minimum wage law.
During the signing, Gov. Mills said the law is about fairness and recognizing the contribution of farmworkers to Maine’s agricultural industry. Farmworkers work incredibly hard to provide the food we eat. They deserve the same wage protections as other workers,” she said.
Labor rights groups have praised the governor’s move. They say the law will help reduce poverty among agricultural workers and create more stable job opportunities. It may also help reduce worker shortages in the farming sector by making these jobs more attractive.
However, not everyone supports the change. Some farmers and agricultural groups say they are worried about how the new wage rules will affect their businesses.
They argue that farming is a seasonal and unpredictable business, and paying higher wages could make it difficult for them to stay afloat, especially for smaller farms with tight budgets.
To address these concerns, lawmakers included provisions in the law to help smaller farms adapt. The law will be implemented gradually and includes a two-year preparation period, giving farmers time to adjust to the new pay rules before they go into effect in 2026.
In addition, state officials have promised to work closely with Maine farmers to provide support during this transition. Programs may be introduced to help farms become more efficient, or apply for aid if they are struggling with the new requirements.
This law makes Maine one of the first states in the country to extend full minimum wage protections to farmworkers.
In most states, agricultural workers are still exempt from many labor laws, including overtime and minimum wage. Advocates believe that Maine’s new law could inspire similar changes in other parts of the U.S.
Experts say this move could have long-term benefits for the state. If farm jobs pay more fairly, workers may be more likely to stay in these roles, which helps reduce high turnover and labor shortages in farming. It may also improve working conditions overall, as farms compete to hire and retain workers.
Many of the farmworkers who will benefit from this law are immigrants and people from marginalized communities. Supporters say this law helps promote equity and fairness, sending a message that all workers deserve to be treated with dignity, no matter their job or background.
Governor Mills has said she understands the concerns of the farming community and believes the law strikes a balance between protecting workers and supporting Maine farmers. She hopes that with careful planning and support, both workers and farm owners can thrive.
As the implementation date in 2026 approaches, more details are expected from the state government about how the law will be enforced and what resources will be available to help farmers and workers understand their rights and responsibilities.
For now, the signing of this law marks a big win for farmworker rights in Maine. It reflects growing awareness about the need to protect all workers, especially those in tough and often overlooked industries like agriculture. With fairer wages on the horizon, many farmworkers are hopeful for a better and more secure future.