What legal steps do I need to take as a small business owner in Pennsylvania to ensure compliance with labor laws regarding employee wages and work hours?

As a small business owner in Pennsylvania, it is important to ensure compliance with labor laws regarding employee wages and work hours. To do so, you should take the following legal steps:

1. Determine the applicability of federal and state wage and hour laws: In Pennsylvania, the minimum wage is currently set at $7.25 per hour, which is also the federal minimum wage. However, certain employees may be exempt from minimum wage and/or overtime requirements under federal and state law. It is important to determine whether your business falls under these exemptions and if not, to ensure that you pay your employees at least the minimum wage and provide them with overtime pay if they work over 40 hours in a workweek.
2. Keep accurate records of employee hours and wages: You must maintain accurate records of the hours worked by your employees, their wages, and any deductions from their paychecks. This information must be kept for at least three years.
3. Post notices: You are required to post notices in your workplace that inform your employees of their rights under the law, including their right to a minimum wage, overtime pay, and to file a complaint with the Department of Labor if they believe their rights have been violated.
4. Train your managers and supervisors: Your managers and supervisors should be trained on how to properly classify employees and how to ensure that employees are being paid properly under the law.
5. Periodic Reviews: Ensure that your payroll and employment policies are in compliance with state and federal laws. Consult with an attorney if you are unsure of any legal issues to avoid any complaints, conflicts or penalties.

Limitations and exceptions:

There may be specific exceptions or limitations to wage and hour laws depending on the type of industry or type of employee. For example, certain employees who work in a position that requires them to stay on-site overnight may be subject to different overtime rules. It is important to consult with an attorney to ensure compliance in such cases.

Further action:

If you have concerns regarding your compliance with wage and hour laws or if an employee has filed a complaint against your business, it is recommended that you consult with an attorney who can provide specific legal advice and guidance.