Employee Rights Legalities & Infractions
Employee rights' laws at the federal, state and local levels are designed to protect you and your fellow workers. Know your rights so that you can be aware of any infractions that may occur and take proper action to correct them.
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Fair Wages
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If you work for an hourly wage in the United States, your employer is bound by federal, state and local minimum wage laws. Although the federal minimum wage in 2010 is $7.25 an hour, many states have a higher mandatory pay rate. For a list of current minimum wages by state, consult the Department of Labor's Minimum Wage Laws in the States
Safety in the Workplace
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You have a right to proper safety equipment on the job. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 requires that employers are meeting certain safety standards for their workplaces. These standards are set and monitored by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Employees retain the right to confidentially report any safety or health violations to this organization.
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Sexual Harassment
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The Civil Rights Act, along with state laws in most states, protects workers from sexual harassment on the job. Nolo, a legal advice company, defines sexual harassment as "any unwelcome sexual advance or conduct on the job that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment." If you are a victim of harassment, report your claim to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
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References
- Photo Credit construction worker image by MAXFX from Fotolia.com