PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Philadelphia Department of Labor is reminding the public that earlier this year it introduced new regulations pertaining to the Office of Worker Protections (OWP). These regulations, which came into effect in July 2023, establish the guidelines for enforcing labor laws in the city.
The OWP is responsible for upholding and advancing worker protection laws for nearly 750,000 workers in Philadelphia. The newly introduced regulations provide a comprehensive overview of these laws that the OWP enforces.
Since 2015, Philadelphia has passed over eight laws that fall under the OWP’s jurisdiction. The new regulations clarify these laws, providing clear guidance on the scope and responsibilities of the OWP.
One of the key features of the regulations is the detailed outline of the procedure for investigations. When a complaint is lodged, the OWP initiates an investigation, during which a notice and a guide to investigations are sent to the employer under scrutiny.
Furthermore, the regulations set out the enforcement actions for the OWP’s determinations and orders. If a final determination is made, the OWP has the authority to apply to a court of competent jurisdiction to enforce it. This could result in appropriate relief and fines payable to the city.
By providing a clear framework for the OWP’s enforcement actions, the Department of Labor aims to create a more transparent and accountable system for labor law enforcement. The complete regulations are available online for public review and download.
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