Authored by Alex Passantino

In a recent newsletter, the Department of Labor announced that, in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2013, the Wage & Hour Division recovered $249,954,412 in back wages for more than 269,250 workers.  According to DOL, since early 2009, WHD has closed 145,884 cases nationwide, resulting in more than $1 billion in back wages for 1,238,589 workers.

WHD’s enforcement efforts undoubtedly will continue into 2014, particularly if David Weil is confirmed as the WHD Administrator.  Dr. Weil is heavily involved in WHD’s “fissured industry” initiative, which focuses on compliance in industries likely to use independent contractors, franchise relationships, staffing agencies, and subcontractors.  The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor & Pensions (HELP) considered Dr. Weil’s nomination last week.  A HELP Committee vote on the nomination is expected Wednesday.