Be Careful Employers: Major Federal Agencies Team Up on Enforcement
Recently, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and Department of Labor (DOL) signed a memorandum of understanding which aims to strengthen their relationship as they prepare to team up against employers.
The MOU details procedures on information-sharing, enforcement activity and joint investigations. In particular, it outlines several key areas where the agencies agree to work together in their ongoing efforts to better enforce federal labor and employment laws. They have agreed to share information regarding unlawful compensation practices, retaliation, discriminatory failure to hire, and even “the identification and investigation of complex employment structures,” Further, the agencies have agreed to advise employees when they may be the victim of illegal conduct that falls within the jurisdiction of another agency.
To ensure the agencies have a better understand of each other’s priorities and laws, the MOU also announces initiatives to provide trainings to each agency’s staff to help identify cases and issues which may arise under the other’s jurisdiction. They also intend to participate in regional seminars and conferences, collectively, and even develop shared training materials and programs.
As the two agencies prepare to team up, employers should be ready to face more aggressive agency activity. It is imperative they stay abreast of the latest federal laws regarding labor and employment matters and ensure they are acting in compliance with them.
If your business has any questions about this topic, or any other general employment issues, please do not hesitate to contact the attorneys at The Royal Law Firm at 413-586-2288.
