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Wage and hour law in Madison, United States pertains to the rights of workers to receive fair compensation for their labor and to work under equitable conditions. This includes provisions for minimum wage, overtime compensation, fair scheduling, and protection against wage theft or deductions. Compliance with these laws is enforced on a federal level by the U.S. Department of Labor, and on a state level by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
There are several instances when you may require legal assistance in wage and hour disputes. If you believe that you're not being paid correctly, whether through unpaid overtime, minimum wage violations, or unlawful deductions, a lawyer can help you understand your rights and possibly recover lost wages. Similarly, if you were unfairly classified as an exempt employee or an independent contractor to circumvent wage and hour regulations, a lawyer can represent you in a dispute.
The state of Wisconsin generally mirrors federal laws when it comes to minimum wage, overtime, and exemptions for specific professions. However, there are local laws in Madison that provide additional protections. For instance, Madison has an ordinance that requires certain contractors and subcontractors with the city to pay employees a ‘living wage’ higher than the state and federal minimum wage. Furthermore, there are stricter rules about worker misclassification in Wisconsin than in many other states.
As of 2021, Madison's living wage for city contractors is approximately $13.62 per hour. However, this number is adjusted annually, so it's best to check the current rate.
In general, any work over 40 hours in a workweek is considered overtime and should be compensated at time-and-a-half in Wisconsin, similar to federal law.
Both federal and state law prohibit retaliation against employees who assert their wage and hour rights. This includes unlawful termination, demotion, or any other adverse action that is taken because you filed a claim.
Exempt employees are those who are excluded from minimum wage, overtime regulations, and certain rights and protections. They are usually salaried and work in executive, professional, or administrative roles. Non-exempt employees are entitled to minimum wage and overtime pay.
If you have not received full compensation for hours worked, the first step is to bring it up with your employer. If this does not resolve the issue, you can file a complaint with the local Wisconsin labor office or consult with an attorney.
The United States Department of Labor and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development provide resources and information on wage and hour laws. For local advice, the Dane County Bar Association offers a Lawyer Referral Service, and the University of Wisconsin Law School has clinics that offer free legal services for certain wage and hour issues.
If you believe you have a wage and hour dispute, seek legal advice. Contact a local attorney specializing in wage and hour law. Keep detailed records of your work hours and pay, as well as any communication with your employer about these matters. Remember, you have the right to fair compensation for your labor.
