The Progressive States Network, a group founded in 2005 with the stated goal of “transform[ing] the political landscape by sparking progressive actions at the state level,” has released its updated summary of the group’s 2007 legislative successes. The report, which covers a wide range of issues, includes a section on employment related legislative issues. Among other things, the report notes:

• New Mexico, Iowa, New Hampshire and South Dakota enacted minimum wage rates that are greater than the federal minimum wage. According to the Progressive States Network, there are now 34 states that have done so.
• Maryland enacted the nation’s first statewide "living wage" law.
• Oregon expanded its employment discrimination statute, including providing for compensatory and punitive damages.
• Colorado amended its unpaid wages law to provide for a penalty of 200% of unpaid wages plus attorney fees.
• New Jersey created new criminal penalties for knowing misclassification of employees as independent contractors for the purpose of avoiding state and federal taxes.
• Colorado passed a law requiring independent contractors on construction sites to be covered by workers' compensation.
• Minnesota passed a law tightening the definition of independent contractor and requiring independent contractors to register with the state.
• Washington passed legislation requiring paid family leave for new parents,
• New Hampshire now prohibits mandatory overtime for nurses and hospital assistants.
• Oregon and New Mexico enacted laws giving mothers the right to pump breast milk at work during breaks.
• Oregon enacted legislation making locked out employees eligible unemployment benefits.