Readers React: Overtime protection is the least we can provide for California’s farmworkers

To the editor: Thank you for reminding us of the continuing difficult and unjust conditions under which our farmworkers struggle to feed us all. A phased-in overtime protection overhaul is long overdue. (“Farmworkers are treated unfairly in California. Sacramento has a chance to right that wrong,” editorial, May 25)

The 1938 Fair Labor Standards Act excluded two large groups of American workers: farmworkers and domestic workers. While some protections have been ceded to domestic workers, little has been done for farmworkers, who remain excluded from the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).

In 1975 Gov. Jerry Brown, in the first months of his first term, took steps to enact the California Agricultural Labor Relations Act (ALRA) with most provisions of the NLRA applied to California agriculture. Having served on the ALRA board when it began, the challenges to bring justice and equality to farmworkers were many and great. Over the years, gradual improvement has occurred. But farmworkers are far from achieving the wages and working conditions all other Californians take for granted.

I pray that the Legislature passes AB 2757 and the governor signs it. This is the least we can do.

Roger Mahony, North Hollywood

The writer, the Roman Catholic archbishop emeritus of Los Angeles, was the first chairman of the California Agricultural Labor Relations Board.

..

To the editor: The Times’ support of AB 2757 demonstrates its lack of understanding regarding to the bill’s true impact.

The editorial refers to “shifts,” indicating a misunderstanding of agricultural labor. Agriculture isn’t a factory that makes widgets indoors. The editorial’s “so be it” attitude over produce that will cost a “few more cents” demonstrates ignorance of agricultural economics.

Finally, noting that overtime protections might result in more people getting work disregards the reality that yearly wages will be less for farmworkers under AB 2757. Nowhere does the editorial address the unintended consequences of reduced income and unemployment benefits, or the loss of eligibility for Affordable Care Act coverage due to fewer hours worked.

The proponents of this bill are oblivious to its real impact. AB 2757 is bad for both employees and employers.

Barry Bedwell, Fresno

The writer is president of the California Fresh Fruit Assn.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook