2020 brings new changes in employment law, as 1.3 million workers in the U.S. who were previously ineligible for overtime are now entitled to receive it as of January 1. The change comes as the result of new federal overtime rules, which have been established to match earnings to inflation.
The Department of Labor set the minimum salary to be exempt from overtime pay at $35,568. Anyone who is making less than the set salary must be paid overtime, which comes out to 1.5 times their hourly rate for any hours worked over 40 in a week. The prior set salary amount was $23,660. Experts said that this new rule will most likely affect small and medium-sized businesses.
Originally proposed in the Obama administration, the exemption amount agreed on was set at $47,000, which would have more four million more workers eligible for overtime. The provision, however, was struck down in 2017.
Types of Wage Claims
Payment of wages is governed by both state and federal laws and regulations, which can be complicated to manage without a lawyer. Our wage and hour dispute attorneys can help you file a claim for unpaid wages if your employer has failed to pay you.
We’ve helped countless clients who haven’t been paid for the following:
- Minimum wage
- Wages for off-the-clock work
- Break time provided by law
- Untaken, accrued vacation time
- Overtime pay
- Travel time during the workday that is related to work
Tennessee Labor Laws
For Tennessee workers, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) governs issues such as consecutive days worked. Exempt workers have no limit to the number of hours or days they work in a week, and thus aren’t required to be paid overtime. Non-exempt workers, on the other hand, have no limit to the number of hours they’re required to work, but must be paid overtime for working more than 40 hours in a week.
Additionally, there is no law in Tennessee that determines how long an employee is required to rest between shifts.
If you believe your employer is violating your rights, it’s important to contact an employment lawyer who can look into your situation and gather evidence. Our team has decades of experience in navigating state and federal laws, and we remain up-to-date on new changes in wage and hours.
Real Results for Real People
At Donati Law, PLLC, our employment law attorneys don’t see clients as just another case in our workload. We treat every client like they’re our only client, because we understand how stressful it must be to not be properly compensated for your work. We work tirelessly for our clients because they deserve to achieve justice. With millions of dollars secured in verdicts and settlements, our team can be trusted to fight fiercely for you, whether you’re having wages withheld or have been denied rest between shifts. You don’t have to navigate the complicated legal system alone – we can be by your side and keep you informed on the process.
Call Donati Law, PLLC at (901) 209-5500, or contact us online if you’re experiencing an overtime or minimum wage violation. Our wage and hour violation attorneys are committed to standing up for the rights of workers, and can help you through this stressful situation.
