Employers Pressuring Workers To Volunteer Will Pay

Employees who feel compelled to volunteer in work-related charity efforts can ask to be paid for their time under the Fair Labor Standards Act. To clarify wage and hours issues, and to determine whether injuries sustained during volunteer work are eligible for workers’ compensation, the Department of Labor has provided guidance that defines truly voluntary work. Elements include: it’s work performed outside the employee’s normal work hours and not similar to the employee’s day-to-day work, and it’s performed without direct or implied coercion from the company. BakerHostetler attorneys outline ways employers can help charities and get the benefits of volunteer programs, including improved employee morale and good publicity, without landing in an HR morass.