What is the primary purpose of the Fair Labor Standards Act?

The primary purpose of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is to ensure fair wages and hours. This legislation was enacted to establish minimum wage, overtime pay eligibility, recordkeeping, and youth employment standards. By mandating these components, the FLSA aims to protect workers from unfair labor practices and to secure a fair standard of living for all employees.

While workplace safety, unionization, and family leave are important aspects of employment law, they are addressed by different regulations and acts. For instance, workplace safety is governed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), unionization is supported through the National Labor Relations Act, and family leave is provided for under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Thus, the FLSA stands out primarily for its focus on wages and working hours, solidifying its role in promoting fair labor standards.