Maine’s new reporting time pay law takes effect on Sept. 24, 2025, requiring covered employers to compensate employees when scheduled shifts are canceled or reduced under specific conditions. Employers across the state should review their scheduling and payroll practices to ensure compliance and avoid unexpected costs.
What Reporting Time Pay Means for Your Business
Under the law, if an employee reports to work as scheduled and the employer cancels or reduces their shift, the employee must be paid the lesser of:
- Two hours at their regular pay rate
- The total pay for the originally scheduled shift
This requirement applies to businesses with 10 or more employees, excluding seasonal workers employed for fewer than 120 days within a calendar year.
Exceptions to Reporting Time Pay
Employers aren’t obligated to pay for reporting time if the employee is unable to work because of:
- Severe weather conditions
- A natural disaster or civil emergency
- Illness or medical conditions
- Workplace injury
Additionally, if an employer makes a documented, good-faith effort to notify employees not to report to work, reporting time pay is not required. However, if the employee shows up after the notification attempt fails, the employer must allow the employee to perform assigned duties. If no duties are available, reporting time pay still applies.
Compliance and Implementation
The Maine Department of Labor may establish rules to enforce the law. Employers should review their schedules, staffing policies, and communication procedures to ensure they meet the new requirements. Keeping proper records of notifications and scheduling decisions can help demonstrate compliance and prevent disputes.
Key Dates to Remember
- June 24, 2025: Law enacted
- 24, 2025: Law takes effect
Next Steps for Employers
Maine HR leaders and business owners should:
- Update employee handbooks and scheduling policies
- Train managers on handling shift changes and cancellations
- Review payroll processes to ensure accurate reporting of time and pay
Proactive preparation can prevent compliance issues and promote positive employee relationships, helping to keep your workforce engaged and your business secure.
Stay Ahead of Compliance Changes
Employment laws keep changing, and our team is here to help you stay compliant wherever your business operates. We track legislative updates like Maine’s new reporting time pay law to ensure our clients stay informed, prepared, and protected.
Contact a member of our team to learn how this law may impact your organization or to discuss proactive strategies for managing compliance risks across all your operations.
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