labor lawAdivision of labor law center

Labor laws in Puerto Rico fall under United States jurisdiction and are heavily monitored and strictly enforced. Puerto Rico (PR) labor and employment laws are very similar to that of many other states. Employers must follow the Fair Labor Standards Act, OSHA laws, and federal laws regulating the right to organize, negotiate, call a strike, and collective bargaining. These laws are in place to protect the interest of everyone and to promote a fair, productive and profitable workforce.

The Fair Labor Standards Act establishes standards of employment regarding minimum wage, overtime, record keeping and child labor. The federal minimum wage is currently $5.15. Employers who are exempt may pay their employees no less than 70% of the federal minimum wage. Employees who work more than 40 hours a week are required to be compensated at a rate of one and a half times their pay for all hours worked in excess of forty in a week. Employees under the age of 18 are restricted in many areas of employment. There are many jobs they are prohibited from performing because they could be considered dangerous. The number of hours a minor may work is limited, especially when school is in session as well as the time of day or night that they may be scheduled to work.

Workplace safety is an issue that is heavily regulated under Puerto Rico (PR) labor and employment laws. Employers are expected to comply with these laws and are subject to inspection. If they are not in compliance they are subject to heavy fines and other possible disciplinary action. Employees should be advised of all safety regulations and free from unnecessary hazards in the workplace. Due to the nature of many industries and the high unemployment rate, many employers are offered some latitude but workplace safety is one area where none is granted.