The term “prevailing wage” refers to the minimum hourly wage rate that must be paid to workers on public works projects in Massachusetts. The prevailing wage is determined by the Massachusetts Department of Labor and Workforce Development and is based on the prevailing wage rate for similar work in the same geographic area.
Who is Affected by Prevailing Wage Laws?
Prevailing wage laws apply to workers on public works projects in Massachusetts, including construction, renovation, and repair projects funded by the state or any of its political subdivisions. This includes projects such as schools, libraries, roads, bridges, and other public buildings.
Employees who work on public works projects in Massachusetts are entitled to receive the prevailing wage rate for their work, regardless of whether they are classified as hourly, salaried, or union employees.
What Do Employees Need to Know About Prevailing Wage Laws?
It is important for employees who work on public works projects in Massachusetts to understand their rights under prevailing wage laws. This includes knowing the prevailing wage rate for their work, as well as their rights to overtime pay, breaks, and other benefits.
Employees who work on public works projects in Massachusetts are entitled to receive the prevailing wage rate for all hours worked, including overtime hours. This means that if an employee works more than 40 hours in a given workweek, they must be paid 1.5 times the prevailing wage rate for their overtime hours.
Speak with an Employment Lawyer Experienced in Prevailing Wage Cases
If you believe that your rights under prevailing wage laws have been violated, it is important to speak with an employment lawyer experienced in prevailing wage cases. An employment lawyer can help you understand your rights and help you recover any unpaid wages, overtime pay, and other benefits to which you are entitled.
An employment lawyer can also help you negotiate with your employer or the contracting agency to resolve your case and recover the compensation you are owed. If necessary, they can also represent you in court.
It is important to act quickly if you believe you have a claim for unpaid wages or other benefits under prevailing wage laws. In Massachusetts, there is a three-year statute of limitations for filing claims for unpaid wages, so it is important to speak with an employment lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Prevailing Wage Laws in Massachusetts
Prevailing wage laws in Massachusetts require that workers on public works projects be paid the prevailing wage rate for their work, as well as any overtime pay, meal and rest breaks, and other benefits to which they are entitled.
If you believe that your rights under prevailing wage laws have been violated, it is important to speak with an employment lawyer experienced in prevailing wage cases. An employment lawyer can help you recover any unpaid wages and other benefits to which you are entitled and protect your rights under Massachusetts law.