In a possible test case for other jurisdictions, a trio of farm groups is suing a Southern California city over a coronavirus-inspired ordinance requiring agricultural employers to pay their workers an extra $4 an hour in hazard pay.

The California Fresh Fruit Association, Growing Coachella Valley and Western Growers filed suit in Riverside County Superior Court to block the ordinance in Coachella, the groups announced March 12.

The groups argue, among other claims, that there is no factual justification for the urgency ordinance, that it’s unconstitutionally vague, and that the urgency ordinance will cause irreparable harm to agricultural employers for which they have no adequate remedy.

"The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be felt by all. The past year has been nothing short of challenging,” California Fresh Fruit Association President Ian LeMay said in a statement. “Yet, as we begin to collectively move beyond the darkest days, it is beyond astonishing that the leaders of the City of Coachella decided to impose another burden on agriculture. It is our hope that with time and additional counsel, the City will reverse course and remove this obstacle to economic recovery in the Coachella Valley.”

The plaintiffs are represented by Howard A. Sagaser with Sagaser, Watkins & Wieland in Fresno, California.

As Coachella city offices were closed March 12, a phone message left with administration was not immediately returned.