Fair Labor Standards Act

Definition

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a United States federal law enacted in 1938 that establishes minimum wage, overtime pay eligibility, recordkeeping, and youth employment standards. This act played a pivotal role in shaping labor conditions by setting regulations that protect workers from unfair labor practices, ensuring that they receive a fair wage for their work and are not subjected to exploitative hours. The FLSA reflects the growing influence of labor movements and the push for better working conditions, as well as the importance of trade unionism in advocating for workers' rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The FLSA set the initial minimum wage at $0.25 per hour when it was enacted in 1938, reflecting the economic conditions of the time.
2. One of the major impacts of the FLSA was the establishment of a standard workweek, which is defined as 40 hours; any work beyond this requires overtime pay.
3. The act also includes provisions that specifically restrict the employment of minors in hazardous occupations and set age limits for certain types of work.
4. The FLSA has been amended multiple times since its inception to address changes in the economy, inflation, and the needs of different workforce segments.
5. Compliance with the FLSA is enforced by the Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor, which investigates claims of violations and ensures workers receive their entitled wages.

Review Questions

• How did the Fair Labor Standards Act address issues related to labor movements and working conditions in the early 20th century?
  • The Fair Labor Standards Act emerged as a response to the growing labor movements that advocated for better working conditions during the early 20th century. By establishing minimum wage laws and regulating working hours, it provided much-needed protections for workers who were often subjected to long hours and low pay. This legislation not only improved individual worker conditions but also represented a significant victory for labor unions, showcasing the effectiveness of collective action in achieving legislative change.
• In what ways has the Fair Labor Standards Act influenced trade unionism and collective bargaining practices?
  • The Fair Labor Standards Act has had a profound influence on trade unionism by providing a legal framework that supports collective bargaining efforts. By establishing minimum wage and overtime standards, unions have been empowered to negotiate better terms for their members, ensuring fair compensation and working hours. The act's provisions have also bolstered union campaigns aimed at raising awareness about workers' rights, reinforcing the role of unions as advocates for employee welfare and equitable treatment in the workplace.
• Evaluate how amendments to the Fair Labor Standards Act reflect changes in societal attitudes towards labor rights and protections over time.
  • Amendments to the Fair Labor Standards Act illustrate how societal attitudes towards labor rights have evolved significantly since its original passage. Changes such as increasing the minimum wage, expanding overtime eligibility, and further restricting child labor demonstrate a growing recognition of the need for comprehensive worker protections. These amendments not only address contemporary economic realities but also reflect an ongoing commitment to social justice, highlighting how public awareness and activism around labor rights have shaped legislation in response to changing workforce dynamics.

Related terms

Minimum Wage:

The lowest legal hourly wage that can be paid to workers, which is established by federal or state law.

Overtime Pay: Compensation for hours worked beyond the standard 40 hours per week, typically calculated at a higher rate as mandated by the FLSA.

Child Labor: The practice of employing children in a manner that deprives them of their childhood, interferes with their education, or is harmful to their health and well-being; regulated under the FLSA.