On Mar. 25, ARK LEG enacted bill on wage complaint investigations.
ARK LEG enacted bill SB 279 on Division of Labor wage and hour claims investigations.
Amends ARK LEG 11-4-218(d)(1) relating to minimum wage law, employee remedies.
Bill Provisions
Director of the Division of Labor shall have the authority to investigate all complaints filed with Division for unpaid wages to determine if regulations has been violated.
Assessment period shall be for 2 years preceding filing of complaint, may be extended through date director issues notice of assessment if director determines a violation.
Or if any other law, rule the director may enforce hindered the director's investigation.
Filing of complaint tolls director's statute of limitations until the entry of a final order.
Legal action by director to recover wages, liquidated damages, or civil penalties shall be commenced within one year of the entry of the final order adjudicating the claim.
If violation prevents discovering valid compensation claim, an employee may be joined in administrative proceeding before hearing or notice may be issued on their behalf.
Legislative History
On Feb. 24, 2025, bill was introduced in Senate; on Mar. 13, 2025, bill passed Senate.
On Mar. 13, 2025, bill was introduced in House; on Mar. 19, 2025, bill passed House.
On Mar. 25, 2025, bill was approved by the governor and was assigned Act 397.
Effectiveness
Act effective 91 days after legislature adjourned sine die (May 5), so Aug. 4, 2025.
Regulators
ARK LEG
Entity Types
Corp
Reference
PR, Act 397, Bill SB279, 3/25/2025; Citation: ARK LEG 11-4-218;
