Workplace Issues

Workplace issues have always been a problem for anyone who works. Some of these issues include: workplace discrimination, workplace harassment, and pay discrimination. Employees fuel a company’s efficient operation. Being the ultimate source of labor, employees should get the treatment and compensation they deserve. However, most companies take advantage of its authority. Aside from not providing fair salary, employers provide inhumane working conditions. In places like Los Angeles, common workplace issues are often taking place. As one of the centers of business and commerce, Los Angeles is often visited by people hoping to find employment. But just like any other place, it is also faced with different employment disputes. Also make sure to keep up with any employment law updates since it may change to give the worker more rights.

Workplace Harassment

Everyone could be the object of harassment. In fact, the victim and the harasser could be of the same sex. In dealing with harassment, it would be helpful to inform the harasser that the conduct is not welcomed and must stop. In 2008, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission received about 14,000 cases of sexual harassment. Surprisingly, almost 16% of those charges were filed by males. Charging parties and other aggrieved individuals were able to recover a staggering total amount of $47.4 million dollars excluding litigated cases.

Workplace Discrimination

Discrimination occurs when an individual is treated unfavorably because of his age, race, gender, religion, disability and being pregnant. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission recorded a total of 95,402 discrimination cases in 2008. Sadly, in this modern time, discrimination still exists. Some still think that they are better than others because of their certain attributes.

Pay Discrimination

Minimum wage and overtime pay are the most common claims among employees. A worker must be compensated for his efforts in the company. To ensure fair compensation, laws were implemented providing minimum wage. Employers paying beyond the minimum wage are guilty of unlawful practice. On July 24, 2008, the federal minimum wage for covered non-exempt employees is $6.55 per hour as contained in Fair Labor Standards Act. But the same increased to $7.25. In California, effective January 1, 2008, the minimum wage is $8.00. On the other hand, an employee is required to work for a total of 40 hours a week. Consequently, any hour worked for more than 40 hours is compensated as overtime pay. Employee-employer relationship is imbued with public interest hence, protected by law. In case of a violation, either party may engage the services of an employment lawyer to pursue a case against the other.

• This article is provided for informational purposes only. If you need help with an Employment Law question,
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