Mike Enzi: “we asked the final rule clearly ensure the overtime rights of these workers would not be restricted. I am very pleased…”

“we asked the final rule clearly ensure the overtime rights of these workers would not be restricted. I am very pleased the Department made the changes to clearly reflect the overtime rights of public safety officers, veterans, and nurses would not be restricted. Let me highlight some of changes that were made in the final rule to better protect the overtime rights of workers and many others. The final rule states first responders such as police, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians are eligible for overtime pay. No question; no gray area, it clears it up. The reference to training in the Armed Forces has been deleted and clarifies that veteran status does not affect overtime. The veterans will get their overtime regardless of the training received in the armed services. The final rule also states licensed practical nurses do not qualify as exempt learned professionals and are therefore eligible for overtime pay. The final rule retains previous law regarding registered nurses which assures them of overtime. The final rule provides blue-collar workers are eligible for overtime pay. To be considered exempt from overtime, the salary level for highly compensated employees is the final rule which has been increased from $65,000 to $100,000. The final rule clarifies the contractual obligation under collective bargaining agreements is not affected.”