Federal investigation recovers $68K in owed wages, damages for 4 Dallas restaurant cooks denied overtime

Summary:

A comprehensive investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division has revealed that Rio Bravo Restaurant Inc., operating as Los Balones Sports Bar & Restaurant, has violated federal law by failing to pay four cooks overtime compensation. According to the investigation, the employer paid their cooks straight time for all hours worked, regardless of the number of hours exceeding 40 per workweek. This constitutes a clear violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act’s (FLSA) overtime provisions, which require employers to pay time and one-half the regular rate of pay for hours worked over 40 in a week.

The investigation findings indicate that the four cooks in question worked between 50 to 60 hours per week without receiving any overtime pay. As a result, the Wage and Hour Division has ordered the employer to pay back wages totaling $34,135 to the affected workers, as well as an additional $34,135 in liquidated damages.

The investigation outcome highlights the importance of employers understanding and complying with overtime regulations, including the FLSA’s provisions. Employers who fail to comply with these regulations can face severe consequences, including back pay and liquidated damages. In this case, the employer’s inaction resulted in significant financial losses for the affected workers.

The Wage and Hour District Director, Jesus A. Valdez, emphasized the importance of employers seeking guidance on overtime regulations, stating, “The department’s investigation disclosed violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act’s overtime provisions. The cooks at Los Balones Sports Bar & Restaurant worked 50 to 60 hours in a single workweek without overtime. Employers are encouraged to contact us should they have questions or concerns about overtime regulations.””

Overall