Definitions

Employer

Employer. An employer is broadly defined as the operator of a business, or his or her representative. As long as the company makes at least $500,000 annually, is somehow engaged in commerce, and has more than two employees, the employees should be covered by the FLSA.

Employee

Employee. An employee is generally considered to be anyone who engages in work for an employer. Virtually all employees working for qualified employers are protected under the FLSA.

The FLSA

The Federal Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is one of the earliest federal laws to provide protection for American workers. It established that employees who meet certain conditions are entitled to guaranteed rights. Among other rights, it established a national minimum wage, ensured time and a half for overtime labor, and illegalized most dangerous forms of child labor, a term it also defined. The FLSA also defines the terms “employer” and “employee,” and describes the legal obligations an employer has to his or her employees.

Since it was first passed in 1938, the FLSA has been amended and updated regularly to further protect American workers. Unfortunately, some employers still illegally take advantage of their employees. If you’ve been the victim of stolen wages or wage or hours violations, the overtime attorneys of Tycko & Zavareei LLP can help. Contact us today by calling 202-973-0900.