December 2025 Iowa Q&A roundup

Q           With regard to wage and hour and leave considerations, what state laws would apply to employees who travel in crews and work on jobsites across the country and don’t consistently work in any one state?

This will depend quite a bit on how long assignments last and what state you’re in. An employee who works a half-day assignment is less likely to be subject to leave laws in the state of the assignment, while one who works for a month will likely be subject to those laws and regulations. 

In general, minimum wage issues are easier to address than leave laws, as the leave requirements are likely to be more complex. As an employer, you’ll need to assess each state individually for its requirements in conjunction with how long an assignment may last. Don’t forget there are other things to consider, as well, like mandatory breaks, such as those in Illinois, and differing Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements.