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Labor law in Ohio governs the relationship between employers and employees. It covers a broad range of workplace rights and responsibilities, including wages, overtime pay, workplace safety, discrimination, collective bargaining, and wrongful termination. Ohio labor law incorporates both federal laws, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), and state-specific statutes, such as the Ohio Minimum Fair Wage Standards Act. Understanding how these laws apply is important for both employers and employees to ensure fair treatment and compliance in the workplace.
Many individuals and businesses may require a labor lawyer's guidance for various reasons. Here are some common situations where legal help can be crucial:
A labor lawyer can offer advice, represent you in negotiations, or advocate for you in administrative or court proceedings.
Ohio labor law includes several notable features that distinguish it from federal law and other states:
Ohio's minimum wage is reviewed annually. For most employees in 2024, the minimum wage is higher than the federal rate and may change each January. Smaller employers may follow the federal minimum wage.
Ohio follows "at-will" employment, which generally allows employers to terminate employees at any time for any lawful reason or no reason. However, exceptions exist for terminations due to discrimination, retaliation, or breach of contract.
Most employees are entitled to overtime pay at one and one-half times their regular rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Exemptions may apply to certain positions or industries.
Workers are protected from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, and other factors under Ohio and federal laws. You can file a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Ohio does not require private employers to provide meal or rest breaks for adult employees. For minors under 18, a 30-minute rest period is required if working more than 5 hours.
Ohio employers are required to provide workers' compensation coverage for job-related injuries or illnesses. Employees can file a claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation.
There is no state law requiring private employers to offer paid sick leave, but some organizations or local jurisdictions may have their own policies.
You may have grounds for a wrongful termination claim if the firing violated anti-discrimination laws, retaliation protections, or an employment contract. Consulting a labor lawyer can help determine your options.
Ohio has strict child labor laws regulating the hours, types of work, and conditions under which minors under 18 may be employed. Work permits are usually required, especially during the school year.
Private sector workers are generally covered by federal law when forming or joining a union. Public sector employees follow procedures set out in Ohio law. Legal assistance can help address questions about organizing or union rights.
If you need more information or assistance on labor law issues in Ohio, consider these resources:
If you believe your workplace rights have been violated or need help understanding your obligations as an employer, follow these steps:
Understanding and asserting your workplace rights can be challenging, but Ohio offers multiple protections and resources. An experienced labor law attorney can help clarify your options and advocate on your behalf.
