What are the rules for paying interns?
In Massachusetts, there are specific rules for paying interns. Generally, unpaid internships are allowed only when the internship meets the criteria set by the Wage and Hour Law. The criteria includes that the internship must provide the intern with training similar to what would be given in an educational environment; the intern does not displace regular employees; the intern is not entitled to a job at the conclusion of the internship; the employer derives no immediate advantage from the intern’s activities; and the employer and the intern understand that the intern is not entitled to wages for the time spent in the internship. If the internship does not meet the criteria set by the Wage and Hour Law, then the employer must pay the intern for their work at the same rate of pay as the minimum wage for the state of Massachusetts, which is currently $12.00 per hour. Employers must also comply with overtime laws if interns work more than 40 hours per week. Interns should also be aware of laws that protect them from discrimination and retaliation. These laws are in place to ensure that interns are not treated unfairly, and that their rights are respected throughout the internship. Overall, employers in Massachusetts must comply with the Wage and Hour Law when hiring interns. This law protects the rights of interns and ensures they will be paid fairly if the internship does not meet the criteria. It is important that employers and interns understand the rules for paying interns and abide by them.
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