Minor league baseball players exempted from minimum wage and overtime requirements.

Minnesota House Bill HF4952, introduced on April 13, 2026, proposes to exempt minor league baseball players from the state's minimum wage and overtime pay requirements. This means that these athletes would not be entitled to receive the standard minimum wage or overtime compensation under Minnesota law.

Supporters of HF4952 argue that the bill acknowledges the unique nature of minor league baseball, where players often receive compensation through other means such as signing bonuses, housing stipends, and meal allowances. They contend that exempting these players from standard wage laws could help maintain the viability of minor league teams by controlling operational costs, thereby preserving jobs and entertainment options in local communities.

Critics of HF4952 express concern that exempting minor league baseball players from minimum wage and overtime protections could lead to financial exploitation. They argue that many minor league players earn modest salaries and rely on these protections to make a living. Opponents also suggest that the bill could set a precedent for other industries to seek similar exemptions, potentially undermining labor standards more broadly.