Contact: Julie Rabinowitz, 207-621-5009

Classes added in Wilton, Bangor and Augusta

The Maine Department of Labor has added three more sessions of its popular free course that educates employers and the public about regulations governing the workplace.  The Laws Governing Workplace Rights classes are taught by staff of the Wage and Hour Division of the Bureau of Labor Standards.

The new times and locations are May 23 in Bangor from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., June 10 in Wilton from 9 a.m. to noon, and June 19 in Augusta from 9 a.m. to noon.  Although the courses are free, registration is required because seating is limited.

“I am glad to see business interest in these free classes,” said Governor Paul R. LePage. “Understanding the law prevents businesses from making costly mistakes.  The class helps Maine’s employers save time, money and aggravation when complying with state regulations.”

This course covers wage and hour laws, including minimum wage, overtime, youth employment, severance pay, equal pay, leave requirements (family medical leave, family sick leave, and domestic violence) and break requirements. It also addresses commonly asked employment-related questions and participants have an opportunity to ask questions.

Commissioner of Labor Jeanne Paquette said, “The department wants to help Maine employers by giving them the answers before we give them the test. This course is designed for small business owners or staff who handle human resources and payroll functions. This is about education, not investigation.”

To register, call the Maine Department of Labor at (207) 623-7900 or visit www.safetyworksmaine.com . Space is limited so reservations are required.

The Wage and Hour Division is Maine’s regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law; it provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine’s workforce.