What is the name of the U.S. federal agency that enforces the Fair Labor Standards Act’s wage and hour provisions?
Answer
Wage and Hour Division
The Wage and Hour Division enforces the Fair Labor Standards Act’s federal wage and hour provisions in the United States.
The division is part of the U.S. Department of Labor. Its work includes enforcing minimum-wage, overtime, recordkeeping, youth-employment, and certain leave requirements under federal law.
The division investigates complaints, conducts directed investigations, provides compliance assistance, and can seek back wages and civil penalties when violations occur. Its authority extends beyond the basic federal minimum wage.
People sometimes confuse it with the National Labor Relations Board, which handles many union and collective-bargaining disputes. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission instead enforces major federal anti-discrimination laws.