California goat herders seek to evade shutdown through budget trailer bill.
Agricultural Minimum Wage for Goat Herders in California
A handful of California’s goat herding companies are seeking an extension of the state’s special minimum wage to continue their efforts in reducing the risk of wildfires. The state Legislature is considering Assembly Bill 143, which would extend the alternative or agricultural minimum wage for sheep and goat herders until Jan. 1, 2026.
California is home to several fire fuels abatement companies that use goats to munch on overgrown vegetation, effectively reducing fire danger in an eco-friendly manner. These companies are primarily funded by the California Department of Forestry.
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About 10 goat herding companies have hired a lobbyist to support the bill in the state Legislature. Currently, goat herders receive a lower minimum wage due to their around-the-clock work, but they were excluded from last year’s budget trailer bill.
If the exemption is not passed, goat herding companies would be required to pay the state’s minimum wage starting in January, which would amount to approximately $180,000 per year.
Tim Arrowsmith, owner of Western Grazers, employs around 4,000 goats for government agencies and private landowners. The workers he hires are primarily from Peru and have temporary agricultural work visas. In addition to the $3.79 hourly pay, companies must provide housing, utilities, meals, and other basic necessities.
If the exemption is not granted, Mr. Arrowsmith would have to triple the wages, which would be detrimental to his business. Lengthy contracts with agencies cannot be altered if wage costs rise.
Assembly Bill 143 has passed the Assembly and is currently progressing through the Senate. Some senators have expressed concerns about establishing a minimum wage below the state’s amount.
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