The U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division recently completed an investigation that uncovered a violation of federal labor laws by Rio Bravo Restaurant Inc., operating as Los Balones Sports Bar & Restaurant. The investigation, which took place at 2905 West Chapel Extension, Dallas, TX 75220, near Dallas Love Field, revealed that the employer failed to pay four cooks time and a half for their hours worked beyond 40 per workweek.
The cooks at Los Balones Sports Bar & Restaurant were found to be working between 50 to 60 hours per week, but they were paid at their regular hourly rate for all hours worked. This practice was in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act's overtime provisions.
As a result of the investigation, the U.S. Department of Labor recovered $34,135 in owed wages for the affected employees and an additional $34,135 in liquidated damages, totaling $68,270.
Wage and Hour District Director Jesus A. Valdez in Dallas commented on the investigation's findings, saying, "The department's investigation disclosed violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act's overtime provisions. The Los Balones Sports Bar & Restaurant cooks worked 50 to 60 hours in a single workweek without overtime. Employers are encouraged to contact us with questions or concerns about overtime regulations."
