What is the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)?
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a federal law that sets minimum wage, overtime, and safety standards for workers in the United States, including in Maine. The FLSA was passed in 1938 and has been amended several times since then. Under the FLSA, all employers are required to pay the minimum wage set by the federal or local government. In Maine, the current minimum wage is $12.00 per hour. Additionally, the law requires non-exempt employees (those who do not meet certain exemptions) to receive overtime pay for any hours worked beyond 40 hours in a workweek. Overtime pay is generally equal to one and one-half times the regular rate of pay for each hour over 40 hours. The FLSA also sets standards for how employers must treat younger workers. Employees aged 16 and 17 are limited to working in specific industries, while those aged 14 and 15 can only work in certain jobs for limited hours. Additionally, the FLSA requires employers to keep records of their employees’ work hours and wages. The FLSA provides important protections for workers in Maine, ensuring they are paid at least the minimum wage, receive overtime pay, and are treated fairly by their employers. The law is enforced by the US Department of Labor, which investigates complaints about violations of the FLSA and can take legal action against employers who violate the law.
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