CRAMER: Overtime Rule Injunction Stops Regulatory Burden on Workers and Small Businesses

Listen to Audio Here

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Cramer issued this statement following today’s preliminary injunction by a U.S. District Court judge against a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) overtime rule, which was set to take effect Dec. 1. The rule redefines those employees eligible for overtime pay based upon salary received, rather than duties performed. It also raises the salary threshold under which virtually all workers qualify for overtime pay to $47,476, more than double the current salary threshold of $23,660.

Cramer has consistently opposed this rule change, signing two separate letters, one to DOL Secretary Thomas Perez and the other to the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee requesting it block the rule in its appropriations bill. The full committee approved the appropriations bill in July with this provision included. He also cosponsored House Joint Resolution 95, blocking the rule from taking effect. 

“Once again an Obama-appointed judge has blocked the President from imposing an unconstitutional one-size-fits-all regulation on employers and workers. This rule would inflict a significant regulatory burden on small businesses, nonprofits, and local governments and result in fewer opportunities for job training, talent development, and managerial experience for employees. It also stifles upward mobility for employees. Any changes to federal labor policy should respect Congressional intent and include sufficient input from all affected stakeholders. Clearly this one does not.”