Department of Labor recovers $305K in back wages, damages for 47 workers after contractor failed to pay them for all hours worked; denied overtime

Summary:

The U.S. Department of Labor has recovered $305,977 in back wages and damages for 47 workers employed by Tejon Constructors Inc., a Palmdale construction company, for violating the Fair Labor Standards Act. The company failed to pay employees for time worked before and after shifts and while traveling, and did not keep accurate records of employee hours worked. As a result, the company was ordered to pay $152,988 in back wages, an equal amount in liquidated damages, and was assessed a civil money penalty of $9,494. The Department of Labor encourages employers to ensure accurate payment and records to avoid compliance issues and costly consequences.