More Than $140,000 In Compensation For Unpaid Overtime Recovered On Behalf Of Seasonal Workers In Florida
On February 8th, 2023, the Wage and Hour Division of the Department of Labor announced the recovery of more than $144,000 in back wages on behalf of several dozen workers who were improperly denied overtime pay in Florida. The DOL determined that La Dolce Vita LLC—a beach-based bike and boat rental company—unlawfully used an exception to deny seasonal workers overtime wages. Here, our firm discusses the legal action and offers an explanation of the steps to take if you were unlawfully denied overtime pay in Florida.
Enforcement Action: Employer Misapplied Seasonal Worker Overtime Exception
The Wage and Hour Division launched an inquiry into the practices of a Florida based company called La Dolce Vita LLC and two of its subsidiaries. The company rents bikes, pontoon boats, and beach-related equipment to customers. As the business is highest in the summer months, the company relies heavily on the contributions of seasonal workers. The DOL determined that the company improperly used the “seasonal amusement or recreational establishments’ exemption” to deny workers overtime pay. The DOL has taken enforcement action to recover approximately $144,000 for at least 141 different employees.
Four Tips If You Believe that You Were Denied Overtime Pay in Florida
Overtime wages can make a big difference for employees. A worker who is improperly denied overtime pay could be missing out thousands of dollars in wages. You have the right to take action against an employer that violates the overtime requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Here are four key tips to protect your rights if you were denied overtime pay in Florida:
- Document Exactly What Happen: The first step is to document everything that happened regarding your denied overtime pay. Write down the dates, times, and details of each instance that you were denied overtime pay. Keep any emails, texts, or other communications that may be relevant to your case.
- Be Proactive (Limited Time to Recover Damages): Time is of the essence when it comes to recovering damages for denied overtime pay in Florida. You have a limited amount of time to file a claim. The FLSA limits how far an employee can “look back” to claim unpaid overtime.
- Report the Issue to Your Employer and/or Regulators: Report the issue to your employer as soon as possible. If they are unwilling to resolve the issue, you may need to file a complaint with the appropriate regulatory agency, such as the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Consult With a Florida Wage and Hour Attorney: Navigating an unpaid overtime claim is complicated. You do not have to take on the entire legal process alone. The right representation can make all of the difference.
Get Help From an Unpaid Overtime Lawyer for Employees in Florida
Are you a seasonal worker who has unlawfully denied overtime pay? You may have a claim for compensation against your employer. Contact a Florida wage and hour lawyer for immediate assistance with your legal claim.
