Bill > H1522

This bill proposes to amend existing Massachusetts General Laws, specifically sections within chapter 149, to allow employees who have been wronged by certain violations to seek legal recourse. If an employee successfully sues for damages related to lost wages and other benefits, and the court finds the violation was "willful" (meaning intentional or deliberate), the employee will be awarded "treble damages," which means three times the amount of their lost wages and benefits, in addition to court costs and attorney fees. If the violation is not found to be willful, the employee will be awarded damages as determined by the court, and may also receive costs and attorney fees. This change applies to various sections of chapter 149, which deal with employment regulations, and allows employees to file lawsuits after filing a complaint with the attorney general and waiting a specified period, or sooner with the attorney general's consent, within three years of the violation.