Bill > S1300

This bill aims to prevent wage theft, promote employer accountability, and enhance public enforcement of labor laws through several key provisions. The bill expands the Attorney General's authority to investigate and take action against employers who violate wage and employment laws by introducing new definitions for labor contractors, labor subcontractors, and lead contractors, and establishing joint and several liability for wage theft violations. It requires employers to provide detailed written information to employees about their employment terms within 10 days of hiring, including pay rates, allowances, and contact information. The bill creates a mechanism for the Attorney General to issue stop work orders against businesses found to be in violation of labor laws, with provisions for appeal and employee compensation during such orders. Additionally, the legislation introduces a new public enforcement action process that allows whistleblowers and representative organizations to initiate civil actions on behalf of the Attorney General, with specific rules about filing notices, potential financial recoveries, and protections against retaliation. The bill also establishes a Community Outreach and Labor Education Fund to support worker rights education and technical assistance, funded by a portion of recovered penalties. Importantly, the bill strengthens anti-retaliation protections for workers who report labor law violations and provides a broad framework for holding employers accountable for wage theft and other labor law infractions.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1300