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WEDNESDAY, JULY 11, 2001

They come from countries as far away as Chile and Peru -- because Americans don't want the job -- and endure harsh weather and working conditions to tend to herds of sheep in remote areas of California.

Many see their American bosses only every couple of weeks when they receive their regular rations of food. They are supplied with housing which could only be termed dismal and have little contact with others.

California State Assemblyman Paul Koretz (D) has authored a bill to set basic conditions for the sheepherders, such as overtime pay and giving them a day off. The bill has passed the Assembly and will be considered by a Senate committee today.

Get the Story:
Calls for Change in Ancient Job of Sheepherding (The New York Times 7/11)
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