The Department of Labor’s
Wage and Hour Division (WHD) has let expire a controversial agreement that gave
Wal-Mart 15 days’ notice prior to any investigations by the division. Details
about the agreement came to light in November 2005 when the department’s
inspector general criticized the agreement, which settled allegations that Wal-Mart
had violated child labor provisions by allowing youth workers in some states to
operate hazardous equipment. The agreement called for the WHD to notify Wal-Mart
15 days before investigations start and enabled Wal-Mart to avoid fines under certain
conditions. The inspector general said the agreement, while not illegal, was
nevertheless inconsistent with WHD policy. Other critics complained that the
deal gave Wal-Mart an unfair advantage when it came to investigations.
The HR Management & Compliance Report: How To Comply with California Wage & Hour Law, explains everything you need to know to stay in compliance with the state’s complex and ever-changing rules, laws, and regulations in this area. Coverage on bonuses, meal and rest breaks, overtime, alternative workweeks, final paychecks, and more.