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Pennsylvania (PA) Labor and Employment Laws

September 20th, 2006 Posted by Marilyn

Labor and employment laws cover a wide range of workplace issues. There are both federal and state regulations that employers must follow to maintain a lawful workplace. These laws are there to protect both workers and employers and to promote the general well being of the workforce.

In Pennsylvania (PA), labor and employment laws that deal with wage and hour, child labor, disability and family leave reflect the federal statutes. The minimum wage is $5.15; if the federal rate changes the state will modify the rate as well. There aren’t really hour limitations, other than overtime. If you are not exempt, all hours worked in excess of forty should be paid at one and a half times the regular rate of pay. All salaried employees must be paid a minimum of $455 weekly. Employees should be paid at least twice a month. If the employment relationship terminates, wages are due on the next regularly scheduled payday. Minors are restricted in the occupations they may hold and the number of hours they can work.

Pennsylvania (PA) labor and employment laws do not require employers to offer meal or break periods, except a meal break of 30 minutes is required for all minors working five or more consecutive hours. The law does not mandate that any type of benefits be offered, however law will protect employees if the employer offers such benefits and does not honor them.

Pennsylvania (PA) labor and employment laws address workplace issues as well. Safety is a main one. There are strict guidelines that employers and business owners must follow to provide the healthiest, safest environment possible, especially if the occupation or contents of the business could be considered dangerous. The Workers Compensation Act protects all employees, with few exceptions in the event of workplace injury or illness.