Raleigh, N.C. – As Labor Day approaches, it’s an ideal time to reflect on the remarkable work the Department of Labor has done in advancing the rights and well-being of workers across the nation. For over a century, the department has been a key force in ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and vital protections for employees in all industries. Through policies such as the enforcement of the Fair Labor Standards Act, the establishment of safety regulations through OSHA, and initiatives supporting workforce training and development, the Department of Labor has played an instrumental role in shaping a fairer, more equitable labor market. As we honor the contributions of American workers this Labor Day, we also recognize the department’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the dignity and livelihoods of millions, fostering a more just and prosperous future for all.
This year alone, the Department of Labor has:
- – Introduced new overtime safeguards benefiting over 1 million workers.
- Implemented protections for miners aimed at preventing approximately 1,000 fatalities.
- Invested $14.3 billion in workforce development initiatives.
- Allocated $218 million to support at-risk veterans in securing meaningful employment.
- Established guidelines to prevent the misclassification of workers as independent contractors.
- Directed $416 million to combat exploitative child labor practices.
- Enhanced labor standards for all farmworkers employed under the H-2A visa program.
The NCAWDB is very grateful for the hard work that the DOL has done, and we look forward to seeing what else can be accomplished in 2024!
