5 Ways the US Protects Their Workers

The workplace is realistically where most Americans spend the majority of their time, and it has not always been known to be enjoyable. For a long time it was very difficult to find fair, safe, stable work. Throughout history the federal government has passed acts and laws to ensure that everyone in the workplace has equal rights for all and treats employees fairly. This week we'll reveal 5 ways the United States Protects you, their workers!

1. Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA):

   1. The Fair Labor Standards Act was enacted in 1938 and was made to establish regulations for things such as minimum wage, overtime pay, recording of hours, and child labor.

2. Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA):

   1. FMLA ensures that, as long as they have an eligible reason, employees can take unpaid leave (for the allotted time under FMLA regulations) and still have their jobs when they return. 

   2. Examples include:

      1. Maternity/paternity leave

      2. Placement of a foster child/adoption

      3. Serious injury or health condition

      4. Care for a sick family member or dependent

3. Equal Pay Act of 1963

   1. This act was put in place to make sure that there is no pay discrimination based on the employee’s sex.

   2. It was intended to close the wage gap between men and women. Although this is still a struggle in the workplace today, employers can not justify any wage differences by using the argument of sex. 

4. National Labor Relations Act:

   1. The NLRA is what allows us to unionize in the workplace. It also allows you to choose to not join a union.

   2. Joining or forming a union gives workers the opportunity to work together and discuss and fight for what they want such as more benefits, higher wages, and other things involving the workplace. 

5. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964:

   1. This specific section of the civil rights act states that employers can not discriminate against race, sex, region, or nation of origin. 

   2. Bostock v Clayton County, Georgia, it was ruled that an employee/applicant’s sexuality or gender status is also protected under the “sex” component of the act. 

Workplace discrimination and mistreatment is still a very real thing in our country and should be constantly fought until true equality and fairness is achieved. Knowing your rights and how you are protected is the best way to know how to advocate for yourself in any situation. If you feel like you are being mistreated or that your workplace is not following regulations, contact an attorney or your county/state’s department of labor. As always stay safe and know your rights!