Vermont Dairy Workers Demand Labour Rights as Industry Grows

Workers in Vermont’s $5.4 billion dairy industry are calling for basic labour protections, including minimum wage, overtime pay and the right to unionise.

Source: theguardian

Some workers say they earn below the state minimum wage and work long hours without rest days. One worker, Hilario, said he worked about 60 hours a week for $650, with no overtime pay or time off.

Many dairy farms in the state rely on migrant workers, including undocumented labourers, to maintain operations. A 2025 report shows most farms employ migrant workers, who remain excluded from key labour protections under state and federal laws.

These workers are not covered by minimum wage rules, overtime pay or union rights. Advocacy group Migrant Justice says this leaves thousands vulnerable to poor working conditions.

Lawmakers have discussed possible reforms, including setting minimum wage standards for farm workers, but proposed bills did not pass in 2025 and received little attention in 2026.

State officials say the issue is complex, with concerns about the financial pressure on farmers. Some farm owners say they provide fair pay when housing and other costs are included.

The dairy sector has changed over time, with fewer farms but higher production levels. The workforce has also shifted, with more hired labour replacing family workers.

Advocates are pushing companies and retailers to adopt programmes that improve wages and working conditions. One such initiative links better pay to supply agreements, but only a small number of farms currently participate.

Workers say they will continue to demand fair treatment and legal protections as the industry expands.