AB 916 Summary

• Requires the Employment Development Department and Department of Food and Agriculture to convene a working group by February 1, 2013 to consult with federal agencies about creating a state permit program for undocumented agricultural and service industry workers.

• Working group must submit recommendations to the Legislature and Governor by July 1, 2013 for a model program including eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, security protocols, fee structures, and background check procedures.

• Governor must request federal approval for the program by August 1, 2013 or provide written explanation of why a request was not made and recommendations for how the program should be structured.

• Model program framework specifies eligibility requirements including minimum 863 hours of agricultural/service work in prior 24 months, criminal background clearance, age 18+, California residency, and payment of program fees.

• Permits would allow undocumented workers access to wage and hour protections equal to legal residents, employment not limited to single employer, and employer compliance with all federal, state, and local labor laws.