What is the difference between a collective bargaining agreement and a wage and hour law?

A collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is an agreement between an employer and a union or other labor organization that sets the terms and conditions of employment. This includes such things as wages, hours, and other working conditions. The agreement is negotiated between the employer and employee representatives, usually a union. In contrast, a wage and hour law sets the minimum requirements of pay, hours, and other working conditions for all employees in a given state or country. For example, Washington requires employers to pay workers the state minimum wage for all hours worked. It also requires employers to give workers one and one-half times their regular rate of pay for any hours worked over 40 in a given week. Wage and hour laws are determined and enforced by state or federal government entities, not unions. In sum, a CBA is an agreement negotiated between employers and unions to set conditions of employment. A wage and hour law sets a minimum standard of pay, hours, and working conditions that applies to all employees in the state or country.

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