Bill > H3262

This bill amends existing Massachusetts law regarding the payment of wages to terminated employees, specifically changing the timeframe for when final paychecks must be issued. Previously, employees were entitled to their full wages on the day of their discharge, but this bill now requires employers to pay terminated employees on the next regularly scheduled pay period, as long as that period is no more than two weeks from the date of discharge. If the next regular pay period falls beyond two weeks, payment must be made within that two-week window. The bill also introduces penalties for non-compliance, stating that employers who fail to meet these payment deadlines could face imprisonment for up to 2.5 years and be liable for treble damages (three times the amount owed) to the employee. However, an exception is made for employers who are under bankruptcy protection, considering bankruptcy, or anticipate going out of business before the next scheduled payday; in such cases, employees must still be paid on the date of their discharge.