Title: Bay Area Subways Ordered to Pay $1 Million in Back Wages and Damages to Underage Workers
Subway franchises across the Bay Area have come under fire after it was discovered that children as young as 14 were working at various locations, in violation of labor laws. Federal investigators have ordered the owners of these Subways to pay nearly $1 million in back wages and damages to the underage workers.
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California ruled after an investigation revealed alarming practices by the owners, including failure to pay employees regularly and issuing them bad checks. The owners were also found guilty of illegally pocketing their workers’ tips.
The court’s decision, which was made on November 2nd, mandates the closure of the businesses owned by John Meza, Jessica Meza, and Hamza Ayesh. The deadline for the shutdown has been set for November 27th.
In addition to the labor law violations, the investigation also revealed that the owners had interfered with the process and had threatened employees who voiced concerns or attempted to exercise their legal rights. One associate, Ayesh, had even threatened an employee who complained about receiving a bounced paycheck.
Under the court ruling, the owners are now responsible for paying a staggering $475,000 in minimum wage, overtime, and tips to 184 workers. They will also be required to pay an equal amount in liquidated damages and an additional $150,000 in penalties.
Furthermore, the court has ordered the owners and Ayesh to pay $12,000 in punitive damages for their retaliatory conduct towards employees. This serves as a stern warning against employer misconduct.
This case sheds light on the importance of upholding labor laws and protecting the rights of workers, regardless of their age. The ruling serves as a powerful reminder that actions taken against employees who raise concerns or exercise their rights will not go unnoticed or unpunished.
As the Bay Area Subways prepare to shut down, it is hoped that this legal action will serve as a deterrent and encourage employers to adhere to labor laws, ensuring a fair and safe working environment for all employees.
