The bill amends the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act by updating Section 9, which outlines the rights of employees when their employer violates the act. Notably, it specifies that employees have up to three years to take action after a violation, allowing them to either file a civil lawsuit for unpaid wages and damages or submit a claim to the director for investigation. The director or their designee is empowered to investigate claims and can initiate civil actions on behalf of similarly situated employees if voluntary compliance is not achieved.

Additionally, the bill increases the civil fines for employers who fail to pay the minimum wage, raising the maximum fine from $1,000 to $2,500 for specific violations. It also includes a provision to protect the identity of employees who file claims, ensuring that their identities are not disclosed to the employer if requested. These changes aim to enhance employee protections and streamline the process for addressing wage violations.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 408.939