Prevailing Wage Violations: Are You Being Underpaid on Public Works Jobs in California?
If you’re a construction worker in California working on public works projects, you have the right to be paid a “prevailing wage.” This wage is set by the state to ensure workers earn fair pay that reflects local standards. Unfortunately, many workers are unaware they may be underpaid. Let’s look at what prevailing wage means, how to know if you’re being shorted, and what you can do about it.
What Is a Prevailing Wage?
In California, the prevailing wage is the minimum wage contractors must pay their workers on public works projects. These are government-funded jobs like building schools, roads, or public buildings. The wages are determined by the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) and vary depending on job classification and location.
For example, an electrician in Los Angeles may earn a different prevailing wage than a carpenter in Fresno. Along with hourly pay, the prevailing wage may include benefits like health care, retirement, and training costs. It’s the contractor’s responsibility to ensure these rates are paid properly.
Common Signs of Prevailing Wage Violations
Unfortunately, some contractors try to cut costs by underpaying workers, either by ignorance or knowingly breaking the law. You may be a victim of a prevailing wage violation if:
- You are paid less than other workers doing similar jobs on a public project
- Your paycheck is missing overtime or benefits
- You aren’t told your correct wage rate for the job
- Your hours or job classification are recorded incorrectly
- Your employer tells you not to talk about your pay
If any of these sound familiar, you could be missing out on wages you’re legally owed. The law in California is clear: workers must be paid the full prevailing wage on qualified public works projects.
What Can You Do?
If you suspect you’re not being paid correctly, don’t stay silent. You may be one of many workers facing the same problem. Reporting a violation not only helps you recover your wages, but it also holds dishonest contractors accountable.
Here are a few steps to take:
- Keep records of your hours, pay stubs, and job descriptions
- Check the prevailing wage for your job and area on the DIR website
- Speak with coworkers to see if they’re experiencing the same issue
- Contact an attorney who understands prevailing wage laws
Call Jonny Law for Help
Dealing with wage violations can be stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. If you think you’re being underpaid on a California public works project, call Jonny Law at 800-566-4868. With experience in fighting for construction workers’ rights, Jonny Law can help you understand your options and pursue the pay you deserve. Don’t wait—your wages, and your future, could depend on it.
Final Thoughts
Knowing your rights is the first step to protecting them. California’s prevailing wage laws are designed to make sure construction workers are treated fairly. If you’re working on a public job and feel something is wrong with your pay, take action. Justice starts with a phone call. Contact Jonny Law at 800-566-4868 today.