Under Employment Law Northampton MA, employers can require employees to work as many hours as is necessary. However, under the FLSA (Fair Labor Standards Act), those who work in excess of 40 hours per week must be paid 1.5 times their regular wage. Mandatory overtime is legal, but state laws impose certain limitations. In the article below, readers can learn about mandatory overtime restrictions, as well as the consequences of refusing overtime when it’s mandated by an employer.
Mandatory Overtime Limits
Employers may require as much overtime as they wish as long as workers are paid according to the law and the requirement doesn’t create safety hazards. However, certain jurisdictions place restrictions on required overtime, allowing workers to refuse it without penalty. Employment contracts can restrict employers’ overtime demands, and any violation of the contract can leave the employer vulnerable to civil litigation.
Workers Refusing the Overtime
An employee who refuses overtime when asked to work will likely face disciplinary action or even termination. However, if the overtime is illegal in any way-;if it violates an employment contract, creates a danger, or isn’t paid according to the law-;it may be challenged by workers and their employment attorneys.
Employers Forcing Overtime but Refusing Extra Pay
Most jobs fall under the FLSA, but there are exceptions to the rules. Exemptions include, but aren’t limited to farm workers, seamen, child care workers, IT and administrative professionals, and those who receive salaries. An employment attorney in MA can tell a client whether they are exempt from overtime pay requirements.
Call a Lawyer About Overtime Issues
Employees often find themselves at a disadvantage in cases involving mandatory overtime. If a client is forced to work extra hours in violation of a union or employment contract, if they haven’t been paid overtime wages in accordance with the law, if they believe the overtime poses a safety or health risk, or they believe their legal rights may be violated, they should call an employment attorney with visit us website. A local lawyer will know Employment Law Northampton MA, and they can advise the client on their legal rights and remedies.
