What is the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)?

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a significant piece of federal legislation in the United States that primarily governs wage and hour laws. It establishes important protections for workers, including setting a minimum wage that employers must pay their employees. The FLSA also stipulates that certain employees are entitled to receive overtime pay for hours worked beyond the standard 40 hours in a workweek, ensuring that workers are compensated fairly for their extra efforts.

Additionally, the FLSA includes provisions that protect children from exploitation in the workforce by setting restrictions on the types of work they can do and the hours they can work. These elements make it a critical law in promoting fair labor practices and ensuring that workers are treated equitably in the workplace. Understanding the FLSA is essential for HR professionals as it directly impacts employee rights and company compliance with labor laws.