News Brief
US Department of Labor recovers $86K in back wages, damages for 74 healthcare workers at New Hampshire rehabilitation living facility
Employer: Bedford Nursing & Rehab Services LLC, operating as Bedford Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
Site: 480 Donald St. Bedford, New Hampshire 03110
Findings: Investigators with the department’s Wage and Hour Division found the independent skilled nursing and rehabilitation living facility for the elderly failed to pay full overtime wages by failing to factor shift differentials and non-discretionary bonuses in its calculations, leading to significant Fair Labor Standards Act violations.
The division also determined the facility allowed three, 15-year-old employees to work more hours than permitted by federal child labor laws.
Back wages: The division’s investigation led to the recovery of $86,008 – $43,004 in back wages and an equal amount in liquidated damages – for 74 workers. The department also levied a $2,202 civil money penalty for the child labor violations.
Quote: “Healthcare workers provide essential services for people often in great need, and the Wage and Hour Division has made enforcement in this industry a priority,” said Wage and Hour District Director Steven McKinney in Manchester, New Hampshire. “Frequently, our investigations find industry employers are failing to pay workers their full overtime wages. Employers must ensure their pay practices comply with federal employment laws. Workers and employers alike can use our online resources and contact us with questions about workers’ rights and employers’ responsibilities.”
