PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Maine’s Democratic governor vetoed on Tuesday a bill to establish a minimum hourly wage for agricultural workers that she initially submitted herself.
Gov. Janet Mills proposed setting the minimum wage for farm workers at $14.15 per hour. That is the same as the state’s minimum wage for non-tipped employees.
The proposal passed the Maine Legislature and appeared headed for enactment. However, Mills vetoed the proposal over changes lawmakers made to the legislation prior to passing it.
Mills said lawmakers amended the bill to allow for privately initiated litigation. She said in her veto message that she preferred to allow the Maine Department of Labor to handle possible violations.
Mills said in her message that she “did not want to veto this bill” but felt left with no recourse.
“I do not believe Maine farmers should face the prospect of privately initiated lawsuits, which would almost certainly lead to losing more farms in the long run,” Mills said.
Analysts: US missile deployment expected to assist Philippines’ defense — Radio Free Asia
Congress moving swiftly on bipartisan action to punish Iran after revenge attack on Israel
911 emergency lines go DOWN across multiple states including South Dakota and Nebraska
Muslim teaching assistant claims being awarded the Christmas Grinch prize at 'light
Under mounting pressure, Biden opts to press for ceasefire in Gaza
Bank of England boss Andrew Bailey forecasts big inflation drop
Former school cop Elias Huizar 'shoots dead' teacher ex
Children played just yards from where headless torso was found at nature reserve, police reveal
Alabama lawmakers OK bill blocking state incentives to companies that voluntarily recognize unions
Champions League rules leave teams chasing a moving target in the Bundesliga