Titan Farms, a major U.S. produce supplier, illegally deducted political contributions and cleaning fees from over 1,300 H-2A workers, resulting in underpayment below the required hourly wage. The Department of Labor ordered Titan to pay $338,446 in back wages, with half already distributed; however, 617 workers remain unlocated and are collectively owed $132,308. The company also incurred a $2,850 fine for safety violations related to worker transportation. The Department of Labor is actively seeking to locate the remaining workers to ensure payment.
Read More
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) filed suit against Walmart and Branch Messenger, alleging they coerced over a million delivery drivers into using costly deposit accounts to access wages. The lawsuit claims the companies opened accounts without authorization, forcing drivers to pay approximately $10 million in fees to transfer funds. Walmart and Branch deny the allegations, citing factual errors and a lack of due process. The CFPB contends the practice harmed low-income workers, highlighting a broader issue concerning gig worker protections.
Read More
Walt Disney Co. settled a class-action lawsuit for $233 million, resolving claims of wage theft from over 50,000 current and former Disneyland employees. The settlement includes approximately $105 million in back pay owed since 2019, when Anaheim’s minimum wage law took effect, and additional penalties. The lawsuit alleged Disney violated the law by not adjusting wages accordingly, a claim initially dismissed but later overturned. A judge will review the settlement on January 17th, after which affected workers will receive notification of their payout.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker