DOL Launches Public Awareness Campaign

The Department of Labor’s (DOL) Wage and Hour Division (WHD) has created a website as part of its “We Can Help” public awareness campaign that provides information to workers on how to file a complaint to recover back wages, learn more about the worksite investigation process, and obtain general information about workplace rights and the DOL’s services. According to a press release, the campaign is specifically targeting employees in such industries as construction, janitorial work, hotel/motel services, food services and home health care.

The We Can Help initiative is being promoted in both English and Spanish via public service announcements, which provide employees with a toll-free hotline, 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243), to call for more information. The DOL recently added 250 new wage and hour investigators to the payroll with the express intent of beefing up its enforcement efforts. In addition, during a recent congressional hearing, Labor Secretary Hilda Solis explained that the DOL is requesting $244.2 million for the WHD’s fiscal year 2011 budget to support targeted investigations, compliance assistance, and the reduction of repeat violations of minimum wage, overtime, and workplace safety laws.

Information contained in this publication is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or opinion, nor is it a substitute for the professional judgment of an attorney.