On May 3, 2024, U.S. District judge Jane M. Beckering ordered Roseline Rowan, owner of Medhealth Suppliers & Providers Inc., to pay $190,648 in back wages and liquidated damages to four employees after the Wage and Hour Division found violations of the Fair Labor Standard Act’s minimum wage, overtime, and recordkeeping provisions. The employees, who worked as live-in caregivers at group homes in Lansing, were not paid appropriately for their services.
Wage and Hour District Director Mary O’Rourke in Grand Rapids emphasized the importance of fair compensation, stating, “The caregivers provide their clients with round-the-clock care and deserve the wages they rightfully earned for their hard work and dedication.” The investigation revealed that the employees were not receiving the minimum wage and overtime pay required by law.
In fiscal year 2023, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division recovered over $31.8 million in back wages for healthcare workers nationwide, including $654,035 for Michigan workers. Employers are reminded of their legal obligation to comply with federal wage laws and ensure proper compensation for their employees.
For those concerned about wage violations or seeking assistance, the Wage and Hour Division offers a helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243) and an online complaint filing option. The agency also provides a Timesheet App for iOS and Android devices to help workers track their hours and wages accurately.
The case, United States Department of Labor v. Civil Action No. 1:24-cv-00311-JMB-SJB, serves as a reminder of the government's commitment to enforcing fair labor practices and protecting the rights of workers in the healthcare industry.
