The bill amends sections of the General Laws related to the enforcement of wage payment regulations by the director of labor and training. It introduces new provisions that empower the director to ensure compliance with wage laws, investigate violations, and hold hearings on complaints. The bill eliminates specific timelines for scheduling hearings and issuing determinations, replacing them with a requirement for actions to be taken in a "reasonable and timely manner," with a maximum of 120 days for both the scheduling of hearings and the issuance of orders following hearings.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures for hearings, including the rights of the hearing officer to issue subpoenas and examine witnesses. It establishes penalties for employers found in violation of wage laws, including civil penalties and potential criminal charges for significant violations. The bill also mandates that penalties collected be deposited into a dedicated fund for enforcing prevailing wage rates. Overall, the amendments seek to enhance the enforcement of wage payment laws while allowing for a more adaptable approach to handling complaints and violations.

Statutes affected:
7960: 28-14-19, 37-13-14.1
7960  as amended: 28-14-19, 37-13-14.1