AR HB1751

Repeals Arkansas Code § 11-4-204, which provided that more favorable wage and hour standards from prior state laws would continue in effect and required liberal construction of minimum wage laws.

Changes the allowance for furnished board, lodging, apparel, or other items and services from a fixed 30¢ per hour to "fair and reasonable cost" based on federal standards 29 U.S.C. § 203(m) as of January 1, 2019, and 29 C.F.R. § 531.

Requires employees to provide written consent before joining collective wage and hour actions and establishes a two-year statute of limitations for wage-related causes of action.

Permits employers to pay wages by automatic deposit or preloaded debit card, with at least one free withdrawal required per wage deposit.

Requires employers to pay all wages due by the next regular payday after discharge and subjects employers to double wages if payment is not made within seven days of the next regular payday.