Department of Labor recovers more than $1.1M in back wages for 238 water reclamation workers after San Antonio company missed payrolls 

Summary:

On December 26, 2022, and January 8, 2023, a San Antonio-based company called Water Energy Services LLC failed to make payroll for its employees, resulting in the missed payment of minimum wage and overtime. This incident was investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division, which determined that the company’s actions constituted minimum wage and overtime violations.

The investigation led to the recovery of $1.1 million in back wages for 238 employees who were affected by the missed payrolls. According to the Wage and Hour Division District Director Cynthia Ramos, federal law requires that employees are paid all their rightfully earned wages and benefits, and the investigation helped recover wages owed to Water Energy Services’ employees for their hard work.

Water Energy Services, a company that provides water reclamation services for the energy industry, operates in Texas and New Mexico. The company’s services include water management solutions, such as technology and services to manage water usage, treatment, and recycling in energy operations.

In response to this incident, the Wage and Hour Division is reminding employers and employees to ensure accurate hours and pay. The division is offering a new Timesheet App for iOS and Android devices, which is available in English and Spanish, to help employers accurately record employee hours and pay. Additionally, the division is encouraging anyone who thinks they may be owed back wages to use its search tool or contact the toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243).

The Wage and Hour Division’s investigation and recovery of back wages serve as a reminder of the importance of complying with federal labor laws and ensuring that employees are paid fairly and on time for their work.