What are the federal labor laws?

Federal labor laws are laws set forth by the federal government that regulate how employers treat their employees. These laws are in place to ensure equal rights and conditions are applied in the workplace. The most influential of the federal labor laws is the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), passed in 1938. The FLSA sets minimum wage requirements, maximum hours employees can work, and regulations for overtime pay. This law applies to employees across the U.S. and protects some of the most basic rights for all workers. The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) of 1935 was designed to protect the rights of private sector workers to join a union, collectively bargain, and strike. This is the primary law governing the relationship between unions and employers. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) was established in 1993, and allows employees to take unpaid leave for family and medical reasons. One of the most important components of the FMLA is that employers must allow 12 weeks of unpaid leave for such events as the birth of a new child, adoption or foster care, and serious health conditions for an employee or their immediate family. The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) of 1970 established regulations to ensure a safe and healthful workplace. The OSHA sets safety standards for the work environment, and employers must abide by federal health and safety regulations. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) of 1967 prohibits employers from discriminating on the basis of age, and ensures that older workers are protected from unfair work practices. U.S. citizens over the age of 40 are all protected by the ADEA. The Equal Pay Act of 1963 was put in place to ensure that men and women who do the same job are paid the same wage. This law helps to ensure equality in the workplace. These laws exist to protect the rights of employees nationwide and ensure fairness in the workplace. South Carolina follows these federal laws, which ensure that all employers are following the same regulations.

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