US Department of Labor recovers $447K in back wages, damages for 60 grocery workers denied overtime by Kern County employer

Summary:

The U.S. Department of Labor has recovered $447,952 in back wages and damages from the operator of three Kern County grocery stores, Fiesta Market and Mi Rancho Market, for 60 workers who were denied overtime wages and subjected to illegal recordkeeping practices. The investigation found that the employer illegally withheld overtime wages, excluded employees from overtime eligibility, and failed to meet federal recordkeeping requirements. As a result, the employer must pay $223,976 in unpaid overtime wages, an equal amount in liquidated damages, and $24,210 in civil money penalties. The Department of Labor aims to ensure that workers receive fair pay for a fair day's work and encourages employers and workers to seek assistance and clarification on labor laws.