What are the rules governing wages and overtime?

In Massachusetts, the rules governing wages and overtime are part of the Massachusetts Minimum Fair Wage Law (MFWL) which is enforced by the Department of Labor Standards. The law requires that employers must pay employees at least the state minimum wage ($12.75 as of 2021), which must be paid in cash or by check. Employees must also be compensated for overtime hours, defined as any hours worked beyond 40 hours in a given workweek. For these hours, employees must be paid at least 1.5 times their regular rate of pay. However, some employers may be exempt from these rules if they qualify as a “retail or service establishment,” such as banks, restaurants, and hotels. When it comes to overtime, employers must also provide at least one day of rest in seven as well as a 30-minute meal break for workdays that are six hours or more. Employees must be paid for all time worked, including any time spent on calls or working offsite. Any deductions for uniforms, tools, or other expenses must be noted in the employee’s pay stub along with the amount and the reason for the deduction. Lastly, employees must receive their final paycheck on the last day of their employment.

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What are the rules governing wages and overtime?

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