the fair labor standards act
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a federal law in the United States that establishes various labor standards for employees. It was enacted in 1938 and is administered by the Wage and Hour Division of the Department of Labor.
The FLSA covers a wide range of employment-related matters, including minimum wage, overtime pay, child labor, and record-keeping requirements. Here is a brief explanation of some key provisions of the act:
1. Minimum Wage: The FLSA sets a federal minimum wage, which is the lowest hourly rate that employers must pay to covered employees. As of July 24, 2009, the federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. However, some states may have their own minimum wage laws with rates higher than the federal minimum.
2. Overtime Pay: The FLSA requires employers to pay covered employees overtime wages for hours worked beyond 40 hours in a workweek. Overtime pay is typically 1.5 times the regular rate of pay. However, there are exemptions for certain types of employees, such as executives, professionals, and some salaried workers.
3. Child Labor: The FLSA includes provisions to protect minors (individuals under the age of 18) from excessive or hazardous work. It sets limitations on the types of tasks and the number of hours that minors can work, depending on their age and occupation.
4. Record-Keeping: The FLSA requires employers to maintain certain records related to wages, hours worked, and other employment-related information. This helps ensure compliance with the act and allows for adequate enforcement.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Fair Labor Standards Act, you can access the full text of the law on the official website of the U.S. Department of Labor. Additionally, you can seek guidance from legal professionals or consult resources specifically tailored to the FLSA's provisions.