PROTECTING THE RIGHTS OF WORKERS:  THE CRUCIAL ROLE OF THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR’S WAGE AND HOUR DIVISION

For workers in Western New York, understanding your rights and protections under labor laws is crucial, and the division is dedicated to assisting you.

The division enforces legislation that sets the minimum standards for wages and working conditions across the United States. It ensures employers adhere to labor laws and safeguards workers from exploitation. Whether you have inquiries about minimum wage, overtime pay, child labor laws, family and medical leave, rights to pump breast milk at work, agricultural workers’ wage and safety protections, wage garnishment, labor stipulations for guest worker visa programs, or prevailing wage rates on federal construction or service contracts, the division is ready to help.

It is important to recognize that the labor laws enforced by the division apply to all workers, irrespective of immigration status. The division does not inquire about workers’ immigration status; thus, all workers are encouraged to contact the division with questions or to lodge complaints in Spanish, English, or any other language.

For individuals in Western New York, the Wage and Hour Division’s Buffalo Area Office is situated at 130 S. Elmwood Avenue, Room 536, Buffalo, N.Y. 14202. The office can be reached at 716-842-3240. Spanish-speaking staff are on hand to aid workers who prefer to communicate in Spanish.

Together, let’s ensure the protection of workers’ rights and the enforcement of labor laws.