US Department of Labor files complaint against Kentucky gas station owners at Z4 Fuels LLC for intimidating workers who assisted agency investigation

Date of action: April 4, 2022

Type of action: Complaint and motion for temporary restraining order

Court: U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky

Names of defendants: Z4 Fuels LLC, doing business as Chavies Food Mart, and owner, Parvez Khutliwala, and manager, Rahim Ali

Allegations: The employer, operating in Chavies, Kentucky, engaged in intimidated actions and violated workers’ federally protected rights when they retaliated against workers suspected of filing complaints or when speaking to Wage and Hour Division representatives during an investigation.

On April 4, 2022, the department requested a court order to enjoin and restrain the employer from further Fair Labor Standards Act violations, and to require the defendants to provide written notice to workers that they have a right to speak with Wage and Hour Division investigators without fear of retaliation. The U.S. District Court issued a temporary restraining order on April 8 and set a hearing date for a preliminary injunction on April 13.

Quote: “Workers have the right to speak with the Wage and Hour Division about their wages. When employers interfere with that right, the U.S. Department of Labor, will seek court intervention to protect an employees’ protected activity,” said Regional Solicitor Tremelle Howard in Atlanta. “We urge workers to contact the agency if they believe they have suffered retaliation. Employers are also encouraged to contact the Wage and Hour Division to get the information they need to resolve compliance concerns.”

Background: Employers can get more information about their responsibilities online, including information on Fair Labor Standards Act wage laws.