09/29/2026
Assembly Bill 2646, authored by Assemblywoman Maggy Krell (D-Sacramento), passed the California Senate on Aug. 25 by a 30–8 vote. The bill would establish a $19.75 per hour minimum wage for certain agricultural employees, including nonresident agricultural workers permitted to work in California on a temporary or seasonal basis through an approved state process.
The proposed wage would also apply to California residents and other “corresponding employees” who perform the same or substantially similar agricultural work for the same employer in the same county.
If enacted, the $19.75 minimum wage would take effect Jan. 1, 2027, with annual increases tied to the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment.
AB 2646 cleared both houses of the California Legislature and was presented to Gov. Gavin Newsom on Aug. 31, where it awaits his consideration.
