One fact that many new Americans do not know is that workers (ALL workers) in the United States have rights. The laws, both Federal and state, protect workers. Here are some basic rights:
Massachusetts Wage Act
You must be paid for
every hour you work, even if you quit or are fired. This applies to hours
worked, tips, vacation pay, holiday pay and commissions. If you voluntarily
leave your job, you must be paid in full on the next regular pay day. If you
are laid off or fired, you must be paid in full on the day your employment
ends.
Meal Breaks
If you work at least
six hours a day, you are entitled to a 30 minute break. During your break you
must be relieved of all duties and allowed to leave the premises. If you
voluntarily elect to give up your meal break, you must be paid for the time
worked.
Tips
You may be paid $3.00
an hour if you regularly receive tips of more than $20.00 per month, and only
if those tips, when added to the $3.00 per hour, equal at least $9.00 per hour.
Your tips are yours to keep. No employer, manager or boss may request or accept
any part of your tips.
Minimum Wage
Massachusetts’
minimum wage is $9.00 per hour.
Overtime
If you think you are not being treated fairly, you have the right to seek legal advice.
The Pioneer Valley Workers Center at 42 Gothic Street (downstairs from the Center for New Americans) helps people with questions about fair employment.
