Employee rights and policies are essential for maintaining a fair and safe work environment. As an employee, it’s crucial to be aware of the labor laws that protect your rights and interests. In this article, we will delve into the top 5 labor laws that you should know about, exploring their significance and impact on the workplace.

1. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a federal law that sets standards for minimum wage, overtime pay, and child labor. It requires employers to pay employees at least the minimum wage and overtime pay for hours worked beyond 40 hours per week. The FLSA also prohibits the employment of children in hazardous occupations and sets age restrictions for certain jobs.

Minimum Wage and Overtime Pay

The FLSA sets the minimum wage at $7.25 per hour, although some states have higher minimum wages. Employers must also pay employees overtime pay of at least 1.5 times their regular rate for hours worked beyond 40 hours per week. For example, in 2020, the US Department of Labor recovered over $295 million in back wages for more than 221,000 workers who were denied overtime pay.

Child Labor Protections

The FLSA prohibits the employment of children in hazardous occupations, such as mining, construction, and manufacturing. It also sets age restrictions for certain jobs, such as working in retail or food service. For instance, in 2019, a US court ordered a company to pay $1.1 million in fines and back wages for violating child labor laws by employing minors in hazardous jobs.

2. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for certain family and medical reasons. These reasons include the birth or adoption of a child, caring for a seriously ill family member, or dealing with a serious health condition.

Eligibility and Benefits

To be eligible for FMLA, employees must have worked for their employer for at least 12 months and have completed at least 1,250 hours of service. During their leave, employees are entitled to continue their health insurance coverage and are protected from job loss. For example, in 2018, a US court ruled that an employer violated the FMLA by firing an employee who took leave to care for her ailing mother.

Leave and Reinstatement

Employees who take FMLA leave are entitled to reinstatement to their previous job or an equivalent position. Employers must also maintain employees’ health insurance coverage during their leave and cannot retaliate against employees for taking FMLA leave. In 2020, a US company agreed to pay $1.5 million to settle an FMLA lawsuit filed by the US Department of Labor.

3. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that prohibits employment discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities, unless doing so would cause an undue hardship.

Disability Discrimination and Accommodations

The ADA defines a disability as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Employers must provide reasonable accommodations, such as modifying job duties or providing assistive technology, to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their jobs. For instance, in 2019, a US court ordered a company to pay $3.5 million to settle an ADA lawsuit filed by a former employee who was denied accommodations for her disability.

Undue Hardship and Reasonable Accommodations

Employers are not required to provide accommodations that would cause an undue hardship, such as significant difficulty or expense. However, employers must engage in an interactive process with employees to determine the feasibility of accommodations. In 2020, a US company agreed to pay $2.5 million to settle an ADA lawsuit filed by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

4. The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)

The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) is a federal law that sets standards for workplace safety and health. It requires employers to provide a safe and healthy work environment, free from recognized hazards.

Workplace Hazards and Safety Standards

OSHA sets standards for workplace hazards, such as fall protection, electrical safety, and hazardous materials handling. Employers must also provide personal protective equipment (PPE) and training to employees to prevent injuries and illnesses. For example, in 2019, OSHA fined a US company $1.3 million for violating safety standards and failing to protect employees from falls.

Whistleblower Protections and Reporting

OSHA also protects employees who report workplace hazards or injuries from retaliation. Employees who report safety concerns or file complaints with OSHA are entitled to whistleblower protections, including protection from job loss and retaliation. In 2020, OSHA ordered a US company to pay $200,000 to settle a whistleblower lawsuit filed by an employee who was fired for reporting safety concerns.

5. The Equal Pay Act (EPA)

The Equal Pay Act (EPA) is a federal law that prohibits employment discrimination based on sex, including pay discrimination. It requires employers to pay men and women equally for equal work, unless there is a legitimate reason for the pay difference.

Pay Discrimination and Equal Pay

The EPA prohibits employers from paying men and women differently for the same job, unless the pay difference is based on a legitimate factor, such as seniority or performance. For instance, in 2019, a US court ordered a company to pay $5 million to settle an EPA lawsuit filed by female employees who were paid less than their male counterparts.

Pay Transparency and Retaliation

The EPA also requires employers to provide pay transparency, including disclosing pay rates and ranges to employees. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who discuss their pay or file complaints under the EPA. In 2020, a US company agreed to pay $1.1 million to settle an EPA lawsuit filed by the EEOC.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the top 5 labor laws is crucial for employees to protect their rights and interests. The FLSA, FMLA, ADA, OSHA, and EPA provide essential protections for employees, from minimum wage and overtime pay to workplace safety and equal pay. By knowing these laws, employees can ensure that their employers comply with federal regulations and provide a fair and safe work environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the minimum wage under the FLSA?
A: The minimum wage under the FLSA is $7.25 per hour, although some states have higher minimum wages.
Q: How many weeks of leave am I entitled to under the FMLA?
A: Eligible employees are entitled to up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave under the FMLA.
Q: What is a reasonable accommodation under the ADA?
A: A reasonable accommodation is a modification or adjustment to a job or work environment that enables an individual with a disability to perform their job.
Q: What is the purpose of OSHA?
A: The purpose of OSHA is to set standards for workplace safety and health and to protect employees from recognized hazards.
Q: What is the Equal Pay Act (EPA)?
A: The EPA is a federal law that prohibits employment discrimination based on sex, including pay discrimination, and requires employers to pay men and women equally for equal work.

Introduction to Walmart’s Quarterly Earnings

People shop at a Walmart in Rosemead, California, on April 11, 2025.
Walmart will report its quarterly earnings before the bell on Thursday, as investors and economists gauge the strength of the U.S. consumer and the impact of higher tariffs on the retail industry.

Expected Earnings

Here’s what Wall Street is expecting for the fiscal first quarter:

• Earnings per share: 58 cents
• Revenue: $165.88 billion

Walmart’s Advantages

Walmart has advantages that could help it weather an uncertain economy. As the nation’s largest grocer, it sells food and necessities that drive steadier store and website traffic.
And as a well-known value player, it can use lower prices to attract even middle- and upper-income customers who want to pay less. Already, Walmart has attracted wealthier shoppers with faster deliveries, store remodels and a wider assortment of brands.
Plus, the discounter has boosted profits by looking beyond retail and grown newer businesses, including advertising, delivery and its subscription-based membership program Walmart+.

Sales Outlook and Tariffs

At an investor day last month, Walmart stuck by its first-quarter sales outlook of 3% to 4% growth. Yet it widened the operating income guidance and did not provide a new range, citing uncertainty about the impact of tariffs on profits.
At the time, Chief Financial Officer John David Rainey said the big-box retailer had seen "a little more sales volatility week to week and frankly, day to day." He said the company expected April to be its strongest month of the quarter because of the Easter holiday.
About a third of what Walmart sells in the U.S. comes from other parts of the world, with China and Mexico as the "most significant" countries for imports, Rainey said in April.

Impact of Tariff Changes

Since Walmart’s investor day remarks, the Trump administration has increased tariffs on goods from China and then later announced it would slash those rates for 90 days. On Monday, President Donald Trump announced the agreement with China to temporarily reduce duties to 30%, down from 145%. Beijing said it will lower tariffs on U.S. goods to 10% from 125%.
Simeon Gutman, retail analyst at Morgan Stanley, said he expects Walmart and other retailers to capitalize on the 90-day pause by importing what they need for the crucial back-to-school and holiday seasons.

Walmart’s Position

As a retail giant and low-cost operator, Walmart is in "an enviable position," he said. The company’s scale allows for more efficient operations, more leverage in negotiations with vendors and the ability to keep prices low — even at a time when consumers are selective about spending and tariff levels rise and fall.
"Anytime these shocks occur to the system, how can they not be the best off?" Gutman said.
But, he added, "at a moment that the consumer is more tentative, it’s critical for this business to show they’re still taking share."

Stock Performance

As of Wednesday’s close, Walmart shares are up about 7% so far this year. That outpaces the roughly flat performance of the S&P 500 during the same time period. Shares of Walmart closed at $96.83 on Wednesday, bringing the company’s market value to about $775 billion.

Conclusion

Walmart’s quarterly earnings report will provide insight into the company’s ability to navigate an uncertain economy and the impact of higher tariffs on the retail industry. With its advantages as a value player and its growth in newer businesses, Walmart is well-positioned to weather the challenges ahead.

FAQs

Q: What is Walmart’s expected earnings per share for the fiscal first quarter?
A: 58 cents
Q: What is Walmart’s expected revenue for the fiscal first quarter?
A: $165.88 billion
Q: How has Walmart performed in the stock market so far this year?
A: Walmart shares are up about 7% so far this year, outpacing the S&P 500.
Q: What is the impact of tariffs on Walmart’s business?
A: Tariffs have created uncertainty for Walmart, but the company is well-positioned to navigate the challenges with its scale and efficient operations.
Q: What is Walmart’s sales outlook for the first quarter?
A: Walmart expects 3% to 4% growth in sales for the first quarter.

Corporate social responsibility and politics have become increasingly intertwined in recent years. As companies navigate the complexities of global markets and societal expectations, they must balance their financial goals with social and environmental responsibilities. In this article, we will explore the intersection of corporate social responsibility and politics, examining the ways in which companies engage with political issues and the impact of politics on corporate social responsibility.

Defining Corporate Social Responsibility

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) refers to the voluntary efforts of companies to improve social and environmental well-being, beyond their legal obligations. This can include initiatives such as philanthropy, sustainability, and diversity and inclusion programs. CSR has become an essential aspect of business strategy, as companies recognize the importance of being responsible corporate citizens.

Types of Corporate Social Responsibility

There are several types of CSR, including environmental responsibility, social responsibility, and economic responsibility. Environmental responsibility involves reducing a company’s environmental impact, such as through sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions. Social responsibility involves promoting social well-being, such as through philanthropy and community engagement. Economic responsibility involves ensuring that a company’s operations are economically viable and sustainable.

The Intersection of Corporate Social Responsibility and Politics

The intersection of CSR and politics is complex and multifaceted. Companies must navigate a range of political issues, from taxation and regulation to human rights and environmental protection. In some cases, companies may find themselves at odds with government policies or regulations, while in other cases, they may work closely with governments to promote social and environmental goals.

Corporate Political Engagement

Companies engage with politics in a variety of ways, including through lobbying, campaign contributions, and public advocacy. Lobbying involves attempting to influence government policy and regulation, while campaign contributions involve supporting political candidates or parties. Public advocacy involves using public platforms to promote a company’s views on social and environmental issues.

Examples of Corporate Political Engagement

For example, in 2019, a group of major companies, including Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, signed a joint statement calling for climate action and urging governments to adopt more ambitious climate policies. This move was seen as a significant shift in the corporate sector’s approach to climate change, and highlighted the growing recognition of the need for companies to engage with politics on social and environmental issues.

The Impact of Politics on Corporate Social Responsibility

Politics can have a significant impact on CSR, influencing the scope and effectiveness of corporate social and environmental initiatives. Governments can create an enabling environment for CSR through policies and regulations that support social and environmental goals. Conversely, governments can also create barriers to CSR, such as through policies that prioritize economic growth over social and environmental concerns.

Government Regulation and CSR

Government regulation can play a crucial role in promoting CSR. For example, the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has driven companies to prioritize data protection and privacy, while the US Dodd-Frank Act has promoted transparency and accountability in the financial sector.

Examples of Government Support for CSR

For example, the government of Norway has implemented a range of policies to support CSR, including a requirement for companies to report on their social and environmental performance. This has driven companies to prioritize CSR and has helped to create a culture of transparency and accountability.

Challenges and Opportunities

The intersection of CSR and politics presents a range of challenges and opportunities for companies. One of the key challenges is navigating the complexities of global politics, where different countries and regions have different social and environmental priorities. Another challenge is balancing the need for economic growth with social and environmental responsibilities.

Managing Risk and Opportunity

Companies must carefully manage the risks and opportunities associated with CSR and politics. This involves understanding the social and environmental context in which they operate, and developing strategies to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities.

Examples of Companies Managing Risk and Opportunity

For example, the company Patagonia has developed a range of strategies to manage the risks associated with CSR, including a commitment to transparency and accountability, and a focus on promoting environmental and social responsibility throughout its supply chain.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the intersection of corporate social responsibility and politics is complex and multifaceted. Companies must navigate a range of political issues, from taxation and regulation to human rights and environmental protection. By understanding the ways in which politics influences CSR, companies can develop effective strategies to promote social and environmental goals, while also managing the risks and opportunities associated with CSR and politics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is corporate social responsibility?

Corporate social responsibility refers to the voluntary efforts of companies to improve social and environmental well-being, beyond their legal obligations.

Why is corporate social responsibility important?

CSR is important because it helps companies to promote social and environmental well-being, while also contributing to their long-term success and sustainability.

How do companies engage with politics?

Companies engage with politics through a range of activities, including lobbying, campaign contributions, and public advocacy.

What is the impact of politics on corporate social responsibility?

Politics can have a significant impact on CSR, influencing the scope and effectiveness of corporate social and environmental initiatives.

How can companies manage the risks and opportunities associated with CSR and politics?

Companies can manage the risks and opportunities associated with CSR and politics by understanding the social and environmental context in which they operate, and developing strategies to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities.