Department of Labor recovers $326K in back wages, damages for 504 workers shortchanged overtime pay by Pittsburgh-area residential homes operator

Employer:      

Passavant Memorial Homes                                                                                                                                                                                                             163 Thorn Hill Road                                                                                                                                                                                                       Warrendale, PA 15086

Investigation findings: 

A U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division investigation found that residential homes operator Passavant Memorial Homes failed to include non-discretionary bonuses when calculating overtime wage rates for 504 employees. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, these bonuses must be included when computing overtime wages.

Back wages and damages recovered:         

$163,418 in back wages for 504 employees.                                                                                                                                                                   $163,418 in liquidated damages for 504 employees. 

Quote: 

“Passavant Memorial Homes workers deliver essential care and enable people in need to live with dignity. Yet, too often, they are shortchanged their hard-earned wages by employers that don’t include non-discretionary bonus payments in overtime calculations,” explained Wage and Hour Division District Director John DuMont in Pittsburgh. “We’re committed to protecting these workers and ensuring they get their full pay.” 

Background: 

Founded in 1895, Passavant Memorial Homes operates 140 residential homes that offer direct care and support services to individuals with intellectual disabilities throughout western Pennsylvania, as well as provides support and companion care in personal residences.

Learn about wage protections for care workers and the Wage and Hour Division.