Are labor laws state or federal laws?
Labor laws in Washington are both state and federal laws. The federal government has established laws that are applicable to all states, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act, which sets the minimum wage, and the National Labor Relations Act, which protects workers’ rights to join or form a union. Washington has also passed state laws that set additional labor regulations. The State of Washington’s Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) is responsible for enforcing these regulations, such as the Wage Payment Act, which requires employers to pay workers for overtime and other wages earned, and the Minimum Wage Act, which sets the minimum wage in Washington currently at $13.69 per hour. These laws provide employees with certain rights and protections, such as the right to take breaks, the right to receive appropriate protective equipment, and the right to challenge wage and hour violations. In addition, they also set forth rules and regulations that employers must follow, such as providing workers’ compensation insurance and providing safe working conditions. Overall, labor laws in Washington are both state and federal laws. The federal government establishes laws that apply to all states, while the State of Washington sets additional regulations that are enforced by the Department of Labor & Industries. These laws protect the rights and ensure the safety of workers in the state of Washington.
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