US Department of Labor Recovers $154K in Back Wages from Georgia Plastics Manufacturer
Atlanta, GA – In a significant enforcement action, the U.S. Department of Labor has announced the recovery of $154,000 in back wages and damages from Primex Plastics Corporation, a Georgia-based plastics manufacturer. The recovery comes after it was determined that the company shortchanged 743 employees on their overtime pay, violating federal labor laws.
The Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division conducted an investigation and found that Primex Plastics had failed to pay eligible workers the proper overtime rate for hours worked beyond the standard 40-hour workweek. As a result of these violations, the affected workers were deprived of their rightful earnings, prompting the Department to take action.
In addition to paying back wages, Primex Plastics Corp. has also incurred $128,000 in penalties for these wage violations. The fines are intended to serve as a deterrent to other employers who may consider similar practices, emphasizing the government’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights.
"Workers deserve to be paid in full for their hard work, including the overtime wages they have earned," said a spokesperson from the Department of Labor. "This case highlights our ongoing commitment to ensuring compliance with labor laws and holding employers accountable for their responsibilities to their employees."
The affected workers will receive their owed back wages and damages, providing much-needed financial relief amidst ongoing economic challenges. Employers are reminded that compliance with wage and hour laws is not only a legal obligation but also a fundamental responsibility to their employees.
Primex Plastics Corporation has yet to respond publicly to the Department of Labor’s findings. The enforcement action serves as a critical reminder that employee rights must be upheld, and any violations will face stringent scrutiny by federal authorities.
As cases like these unfold, workers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their rights and report any discrepancies in pay to the appropriate authorities. The Department of Labor remains dedicated to fostering a fair and equitable workplace for all.