The U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division agency has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which will serve to further cement their relationship.
According to a press release, the agreement will improve the agencies’ partnership and outlines procedures on information-sharing as well as training and outreach.
The agreement seeks to improve the enforcement process of the law and to reaffirm commitment to ensure the rights and protections of workers, ensure that employers pay workers rightfully and that workers can take collective action to improve their working conditions without fear of retaliation.
"Workers across this nation put food on our tables, and keep our families well and our neighborhoods safe. In return, they deserve equity, fair pay and our respect," acting Wage and Hour Division Administrator Jessica Looman said, according to the press release. "Collaborating with the National Labor Relations Board will expand both of our agencies’ impact and effectiveness in enforcing workplace protections and combatting misclassification, and preventing retaliation against them."
The strengthened relationship between the two agencies will establish processes for information sharing and develop a process for referral, joint investigation and cross training of personnel.
Through their partnership, the two agencies will also seek to raise public awareness of laws enforced by the Wage and Hour Division and the NLRB.
