Monday morning musings for workplace watchers
Democrats Push Higher Fines for Employers | States Raise Alarms Over Silicosis
Programming note: This is the last edition of Punching In for 2025. We will return in 2026 with more labor and employment law news.
Parker Purifoy: A group of influential House Democrats want to dramatically increase penalties for companies that break federal employment laws, saying current rules fall short in protecting workers.
The Congressional Labor Caucus recently introduced the Labor Enforcement to Securely Protect Workers Act, which would significantly increase monetary fines for violations of child labor, wage and hour, health and safety, and farmworker protection laws.
It would also introduce new penalties for violations of the National Labor Relations Act. The fines could reach $50,000 for every unfair labor practice that includes discriminating against a worker for their union position or opinions, firing an employee over their organizing activities, permanently replacing striking workers, or any other violation that results in discharge or “serious economic harm” to an employee.
It’s unlikely the bill will gain traction while Republicans retain control over Congress but it represents a wishlist for Democrats to boost union power and worker rights if they regain the majority after next year’s midterm elections.
“Every American should be fairly compensated and be able to return home safely at the end of the day,” said Rep. Bobby Scott...
Florida Eye Institute, one of the five ophthalmology practices paying settlements, has locations in Vero Beach, Sebastian and Fort Pierce Five Florida ophthalmology practices, including one on the ...