1966 amendment

Definition

The 1966 amendment to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) significantly expanded the scope of the original legislation, which aimed to regulate labor standards in the United States. This amendment introduced new provisions for minimum wage, overtime pay, and child labor protections, reflecting a growing concern for workers' rights and economic equity during the Civil Rights Movement era. By broadening coverage to more workers and industries, the 1966 amendment played a crucial role in establishing fair labor practices across various sectors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 1966 amendment extended coverage to an additional 2.5 million workers, significantly increasing the number of employees entitled to minimum wage and overtime protections.
2. It raised the minimum wage from $1.25 per hour to $1.60 per hour, reflecting a commitment to improving the financial wellbeing of low-income workers.
3. The amendment introduced stricter regulations regarding child labor, raising the age limit for hazardous occupations and ensuring safer working conditions for young workers.
4. In addition to private sector employees, the 1966 amendment expanded FLSA protections to many public sector employees, enhancing their labor rights as well.
5. This amendment was instrumental in addressing disparities in wage practices among different industries and regions, promoting greater economic fairness.

Review Questions

• How did the 1966 amendment change the scope of the Fair Labor Standards Act in terms of worker protection?
  • The 1966 amendment broadened the scope of the Fair Labor Standards Act by including more workers and industries under its protection. It extended minimum wage and overtime pay provisions to an additional 2.5 million workers, making significant strides towards fair labor practices. Additionally, it addressed child labor concerns by enforcing stricter regulations, which showcased a growing recognition of the need for improved worker rights during that period.
• Evaluate the impact of the 1966 amendment on child labor laws and its significance in the context of labor rights during that era.
  • The 1966 amendment had a profound impact on child labor laws by raising age limits for hazardous work and implementing stricter regulations to protect young workers from exploitation. This was significant as it reflected broader social movements advocating for children's rights and labor reforms during the Civil Rights Movement. The focus on safeguarding minors in the workforce indicated an evolving understanding of worker protection that emphasized not just economic factors but also ethical considerations regarding vulnerable populations.
• Discuss how the changes brought about by the 1966 amendment to the Fair Labor Standards Act influenced economic conditions in the United States.
  • The changes implemented by the 1966 amendment significantly influenced economic conditions by improving wages and working conditions for millions of American workers. By raising minimum wage levels and expanding overtime pay eligibility, it contributed to increased disposable income among low-wage earners, which in turn stimulated consumer spending and economic growth. Furthermore, these labor protections helped reduce income inequality and fostered a more equitable workforce environment, aligning with the social justice initiatives that were gaining momentum at that time.

Related terms

Minimum Wage: The lowest hourly wage that employers are legally required to pay their workers, set by federal or state law.

Overtime Pay: Compensation paid to employees who work more than a specified number of hours in a workweek, typically at a higher rate than their regular pay.

Child Labor Laws: Legislation that regulates the employment of minors, setting age limits and working conditions to protect children from exploitation.