Disputes Concerning Days Off And Holiday Pay In Harrisburg

Thanksgiving acts as the unofficial start of the winter holidays in Harrisburg and kicks off an entire season devoted to spending time with family and friends. With multiple reasons to celebrate, employees eagerly look forward to taking time off. Unfortunately, disputes over requested days off, paid holidays, and other work-related issues can easily put a damper on your holiday spirit.

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is one of several federal and state laws that apply in this situation. Our Harrisburg FLSA lawyer explains more about your rights as a worker and what to expect this holiday season.

Taking Time Off Over The Holidays

One of the biggest concerns people have over the holidays is how to arrange their work schedule, so they can spend time celebrating with their loved ones. Whether you plan on hosting events for your family and friends or taking a holiday trip, disputes over days off can quickly dampen your enthusiasm.

State and federal laws apply in dealing with wage and hour disputes in Harrisburg. The Pennsylvania Statutes (Tit. 44, §11) list days designated as holidays. It includes Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

While state and federal offices are closed these days, private businesses do have the option to remain open. When it comes to holiday time off and wage-related issues, your employee contract should spell out the terms. This includes:

• Holiday closures and varying schedules;
• When you are required to work;
• How to request days off and any blackout dates;
• Your rate of pay for holidays, overtime, bonuses, or other benefits.

Protecting Your Rights As A Workers This Holiday Season

Keep in mind that under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), private employers are typically not required to provide days off over the holidays, nor are they obligated to provide holiday pay or other special compensation. Again, this is typically dictated in your employee contract.

However, while the FLSA does not offer specific holiday protections, it does set general limits on the number of hours you can be scheduled and your rights regarding hourly wages and overtime pay. To protect yourself against any disputes that arise this holiday season, follow these steps:

• Carefully review your employment contract;
• Unless your employer closes, request time off for holidays well in advance;
• If your employer refuses, get the reason in writing;
• Monitor your schedule and make sure common practices, such as alternating who works over holidays, are being observed;
• Monitor your hours and your paycheck to ensure you are getting any overtime or holiday pay you may be owed.

Request A Consultation With Our Harrisburg FLSA Lawyer 

The holidays are a hectic time of year. Between arranging your work schedule and time with your family, problems can easily arise. Ira H. Weinstock, P.C. provides the professional legal help you need to ensure both your job and your rights as an employee are protected. For trusted guidance in resolving work-related disputes, call or contact us online and request a consultation with our Harrisburg FLSA lawyer today.

Sources:

casetext.com/statute/pennsylvania-statutes/statutes-unconsolidated/title-44-ps-legal-holidays-and-observances/chapter-2-other-holidays-and-observances

dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsa