Rep. Mark Takano Applauds New Overtime Protections for Middle Class Workers
Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) released the following statement after the Department of Labor published a new rule restoring overtime eligibility for salaried workers.
“The Administration took a bold step today toward increasing middle class wages, addressing income inequality, and rebalancing the economy to ensure every family has a fair shot at financial security. After four decades without a meaningful update, federal overtime protections were severely outdated, forcing many salaried employees to work more than 40 hours a week for no extra pay. These rules were so obsolete that many workers were not even aware salaried workers could qualify for overtime.
“As a result of the Administration’s actions, employees will either receive more money or more time with their families, and all workers will have a clear understanding that they cannot be forced to work long hours for free.
“Economic inequality and the plight of the middle class are not issues beyond our control. They are the result of weakened worker protections that allow businesses to take advantage of employees and suppress wages. Restoring overtime is an effective and necessary policy to boost pay for the middle class and I’m proud to stand with colleagues who are committed to making sure the economy does not leave workers behind."
Press Contact
Josh Weisz, 202-225-2305, josh.weisz@mail.house.gov