What is the primary purpose of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)?

The primary purpose of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is to establish minimum wage and overtime pay protections for workers. Enacted in 1938, the FLSA was designed to address unfair labor practices that emerged during the Great Depression and ensure that employees receive a fair wage for their work. By setting a federal minimum wage, the FLSA helps to ensure that workers earn sufficient income to meet basic living expenses. Additionally, the Act mandates overtime pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek for non-exempt employees, thereby discouraging employers from requiring excessive work hours without proper compensation.

In this context, options related to regulating tax withholding, overseeing employee union rights, and managing workplace safety do not align with the core objectives of the FLSA. While all these areas are important aspects of labor and employment law, they are governed by different laws and regulations. The specific focus of the FLSA on wage standards and overtime pay distinguishes it as the primary legislative framework addressing these aspects of employment.