Bill > S1297

This bill clarifies provisions in the Massachusetts prevailing wage law that govern how employees can pursue legal action for wage violations. Specifically, the bill modifies Sections 27, 27F, 27G, and 27H of Chapter 149 of the General Laws to standardize the process for employees seeking to file civil lawsuits against employers. Under the new provisions, an employee can file a civil action 90 days after submitting a complaint to the attorney general (or sooner with the attorney general's written consent), within three years of the violation. The bill introduces a "tolling" provision that pauses the three-year statute of limitations from the date an employee files a complaint with the attorney general until the attorney general either authorizes a private right of action or completes an enforcement action. If an employee successfully wins such a lawsuit, they are entitled to treble damages (three times the lost wages and benefits), plus litigation costs and reasonable attorneys' fees. This legislation appears designed to provide clearer pathways and stronger protections for employees seeking to recover unpaid wages and challenge labor law violations.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1297