The U.S. Department of Labor has successfully recovered $87,118 in back wages and damages for 21 employees at Central Park Family Restaurant Inc., located in New Port Richey, Florida. This action follows an investigation by the department's Wage and Hour Division, which revealed several violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Investigators found that the restaurant required its employees to purchase uniform shirts, resulting in their average weekly wages falling below the federal minimum wage. Additionally, Central Park Family Restaurant was found to have used a cash wage instead of the higher Florida state minimum wage to calculate overtime rates for servers. The employer also incorrectly classified some kitchen staff as exempt from overtime pay, paying them a flat weekly salary without compensating them for hours worked beyond 40 per week.

Nicolas Ratmiroff, District Director of the Wage and Hour Division in Tampa, Florida, emphasized the importance of adhering to legal obligations regarding employee compensation. He stated, “Paying a salary does not automatically excuse employers from their obligation to pay employees required overtime wages. Failure to pay overtime correctly continues to be a common violation among restaurant industry employers.” Ratmiroff encouraged employers uncertain about their legal responsibilities to reach out to their local Wage and Hour Division office for guidance.

The department provides resources for both workers and employers to ensure accurate tracking of work hours and pay. Employers can contact the Wage and Hour Division through its toll-free number or utilize tools like the department’s Timesheet App available on Android and iOS platforms.