In general, you have the right to be paid a fair wage, the right to work in a safe workplace, and the right to work in an environment free from harassment and discrimination. You also have the right to make a complaint about workplace conditions without suffering retaliation.

Federal and state labor laws govern the rights and responsibilities of employees and employers. The Fair Labor Standard Act (FLSA) and several Michigan laws protect the rights of employees in the workplace and provide remedies when employers fail to comply.

Federal and state labor laws:

• Guarantee a minimum wage.
• Define a workweek.
• Regulate overtime pay.
• Guarantee the right to choose whether to join a union.
• Guarantee a safe working environment.
• Protect workers from retaliation for exercising legal rights.
• Protect employees against discrimination and harassment.

State labor laws also provide the right to compensation under the Michigan Paid Medical Leave Act (MPMLA) for employees who have medical conditions or must take care of a family member with a medical condition.