The Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the Secretariat of Labor and Social Welfare of Mexico (STPS) signed an agreement on April 3, 2014, to strengthen the relationship between both nations and promote compliance of the labor laws of both countries, especially as it relates to the protection of migrant workers.  Through this joint effort, both governments seek to ensure that migrant workers become more knowledgeable of their legal rights, as well as of the employer’s obligations.

Under the provisions of the North American Agreement on Labor Cooperation (NAALC), both governments intend to increase economic and labor opportunities, as well as improve the general standard of living of all workers.  In this regard, the DOL and STPS will establish joint training and informational programs, targeting industry sectors and workplaces with a high concentration of migrant workers, to promote understanding of worker rights and employer responsibilities, as well as raise awareness regarding unlawful practices, among other efforts.  The programs will be provided in both English and Spanish, to ensure full understanding by the workers.

Notably, these efforts will be made in collaboration with various U.S. government agencies, including the U.S. Wage and Hour Division, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the National Labor Relations Board, the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission, embassies and consulates, as well as local legal services and non-governmental organizations.

A copy of the agreement can be accessed here.