SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5476

BYSenators Smitherman, Lee and Warnke; by request of Employment Security Department

Repealing unemployment compensation provisions for agricultural labor.

Senate Committee on Economic Development & Labor

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 17, 1989

Senate Staff:Steve Boruchowitz (786-7429)

AS OF FEBRUARY 9, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Currently, agricultural labor is not considered "employment" for purposes of unemployment compensation unless it is performed for an employer who has a payroll of $20,000 or more in any calendar quarter, or employs 10 or more workers in a 20 week period, in the current or prior year.  Agricultural workers on "small farms" therefore are not covered by unemployment compensation and the employers do not pay unemployment insurance taxes.

SUMMARY:

For purposes of unemployment compensation insurance, the definition of agricultural labor not being considered employment is removed.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    yes

Fiscal Note:      requested February 1, 1989

Effective Date:January 1, 1990