Report: Wage Theft a Serious Problem in Florida
According to a report from Orlando Weekly, wage theft remains a very serious problem in Florida and throughout the United States. The Farmworker Association of Florida—a workers’ advocacy group—states that they are receiving an increasing number of calls from employees who claim that they have not been properly paid.
What is Wage Theft?
As defined by the National Employment Law Project (NELP), wage theft happens when “an employer does not pay an employee the benefits they have earned.” It can take a number of different forms, including underpaying for hours worked, not paying overtime, or deducting too much for tips. Alarmingly, wage theft disproportionately affects lower-wage and hourly workers.
Farmworker Association of Florida Reports Wage Theft is Rising
As confirmed by Orlando Weekly, the Farmworker Association of Florida has seen an increase in complaints about unpaid wages over the past year. Notably, the organization finds that the jump in complaints has largely come from construction workers and service industry workers. Notably, the organization finds that Hispanic workers are disproportionate victims of wage theft in Florida. Remember, the widespread problem of wage theft involves not just unpaid wages but also issues like mismanaged tips and unpaid overtime. The Farmworker Association of Florida emphasizes that state regulators need to do more to protect the rights of workers in the state.
Three Steps to Take If You Suspect a Wage and Hour Violation
Do you suspect that you were the victim of wage theft in Florida? Whether it was a minimum wage violation, an overtime violation, or any other matter, a proactive approach is a must. Your labor law rights may have been violated and you may be entitled to financial compensation. Here are three steps that workers should take if they suspect wage theft in Florida:
- Document It: Keep detailed records of all work hours, pay stubs, and any communications with your employer regarding your pay. Note discrepancies between agreed wages and what was actually paid—with consideration to any unpaid overtime or unpaid wages. Your records are evidence in a wage and hour claim.
- Report It: Report the violation to the appropriate authorities. You can report wage theft to both federal and state regulations. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), workers have the right to report a suspected wage and hour violation without facing any retaliation from an employer.
- Take Legal Action: Professional legal representation can make a dramatic difference. You should consult with a Florida wage and hour attorney who has the legal experience to take on wage theft cases. Your lawyer can offer guidance that is narrowly tailored to your specific case. Wage and hour violations should be remedied in a timely manner.
Get Help From a Wage and Hour Attorney in Florida
Employees deserve the full and fair wages that they rightfully earned. If you or your family member was the victim of any type of wage and hour violation, professional guidance and support is available. Consult with a Florida wage and hour attorney today.
