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Labor law in Fort Lauderdale, United States, is governed by both state laws of Florida and federal laws of the country. These laws provide a framework to deal with issues related to employee rights, disputes between employers and employees, work conditions, and wages. The primary purpose of these laws is to establish a balance by protecting employees' rights while considering the operational needs of businesses. Labor laws cover an array of topics such as wage and hour laws, workplace safety, antisiscrimination, whistleblowing, and workers' compensation.
It is common for disputes to arise in the context of an employment relationship. As an employee, you may need a lawyer if you believe your rights have been violated — perhaps due to wrongful termination, harassment, discrimination, wage issues, or unfair labor practices. As an employer, you could need legal assistance to ensure compliance with labor laws, manage employee issues, or handle discrimination complaints. In either situation, a labor law attorney can provide critical assistance to understand your legal options and navigate legal proceedings.
Fort Lauderdale, being part of Florida, adheres to the state's labor statute, the Florida Civil Rights Act, and the Florida Minimum Wage Act Act, among others. Key aspects of these local laws include providing a minimum wage higher than the federal minimum, enforcing strict anti-discrimination policies, promoting workplace fairness, and ensuring safe working conditions. However, right-to-work laws in Florida prevent mandatory union membership. Understanding the nuances of these local laws is critical for both employers and employees.
As of 2021, the minimum wage in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is $8.65 per hour, higher than the federal minimum. Each year, Florida recalculates the rate based on the Consumer Price Index.
There are no state laws in Florida that require employers to provide health insurance. However, under the Affordable Care Act (federal law), businesses with 50 or more full-time employees are required to provide health insurance.
In line with federal law, Florida law requires employers to pay non-exempt employees one-and-a-half times their regular pay rate for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek.
Florida is a "right-to-work" state, which means that employees cannot be compelled to join or pay dues to a union as a condition of employment.
Employers hiring international workers must comply with federal immigration laws, including verifying eligibility for employment through the I-9 form and E-Verify system. They must also adhere to visa regulations pertinent to the type of employment offered.
The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Miami branch are two key resources for labor law information in Fort Lauderdale. Additionally, resources like the Nolo’s legal encyclopedia and Legal Information Institute provide comprehensive legal insights online.
If you need legal assistance regarding labor law in Fort Lauderdale, your first step should be to contact and consult with a local labor law attorney. Preliminary consultations can often help you understand your situation better and outline your legal options. Additionally, it can be beneficial for individuals to acquaint themselves with key labor laws to know their rights and responsibilities.
