The last few years have brought changes to America’s most famous burger joint. McDonald’s Inc. introduced new food and drink options to appeal to a wider crowd and brought the iconic golden arches to more global locations. But lately less savory items have intruded into the corporate menu. Lawsuits and street protests have amplified criticism of the company’s pay practices—just as the Obama administration has focused national attention on the minimum wage and overtime by making them signature issues.
In March employees dissatisfied with McDonald’s wage and hour practices filed seven class action lawsuits in New York, California and Michigan claiming that the company engaged in “wage theft.” Together the suits, which are not identical, describe Fair Labor Standards Act and state law violations, including allegations that workers were paid below federal and state minimum wages. Plaintiffs also said they were forced to work off the clock, and were deprived of proper rest breaks, meal periods and overtime.
