What does Preamble of Don’t STEAL Act do?

This bill aims to amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. The proposed amendment focuses on increasing both criminal and civil penalties. The bill intends to address the issue of wage theft.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Don’t STEAL Act do?

This bill is formally titled the Don't Stand for Taking Employed Americans' Livings Act or the Don't STEAL Act.

What does RIGHT TO FULL COMPENSATION. of Don’t STEAL Act do?

This section amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to establish a 'Right to Full Compensation'. Employers must compensate employees at a rate not less than the greater of a rate specified in an employment agreement or the wage rate required by applicable federal or state law. The requirement applies to employees engaged in commerce or production of goods for commerce. Section 10 of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 is repealed. Section 15(a)(2) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 is amended to include violations of section 8 alongside existing prohibitions.

What does PENALTIES FOR WAGE THEFT. of Don’t STEAL Act do?

This section amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to establish criminal penalties for willful violations of sections 3(m)(2)(B), 6, 7, or 8 related to wages. The criminal penalties include fines and imprisonment, with the length of imprisonment (up to 5 years or 1 year) depending on the amount of unpaid wages or overtime compensation (greater than $1,000 or equal to or less than $1,000, respectively). Factors considered in determining fines include the gravity of the violation, prior convictions, and the size of the business. The section also amends civil penalty provisions to include sections 6, 7, and 8. Funds collected from fines under subsection (a)(2) will be applied by the Wage and Hour Division to enforce sections 3(m)(2)(B), 6, 7, and 8. The amendments apply to violations occurring on or after 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act.

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Don’t STEAL Act

Last updated: 8/26/2025 · Introduced: 8/26/2025

Author: Seth Magaziner (D-RI)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill establishes a 'Right to Full Compensation' requiring employers to pay employees at least the rate specified in an employment agreement or applicable law, effectively repealing a portion of the existing Fair Labor Standards Act.
The bill introduces criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for willful violations related to wage payments and overtime compensation.
Fines collected from wage theft violations will be directed towards enforcing wage and hour laws, and the penalties apply to violations occurring after 90 days of the bill's enactment.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 2 more.

4 sections

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