Define: FWS

The Fair Workweek law, also known as FWS, is a set of regulations that aim to provide employees with predictable work schedules and fair compensation.

The Fair Workweek law typically applies to industries such as retail, hospitality, food service, and healthcare, where employees often face unpredictable work schedules.

The key provisions of the Fair Workweek law include advance notice of work schedules, right to request schedule changes, compensation for last-minute schedule changes, and protection against retaliation for exercising rights under the law.

The specific advance notice requirements may vary by jurisdiction, but typically employers are required to provide at least a certain number of days’ notice, such as 14 days, before the start of the work schedule.

Yes, employees generally have the right to request changes to their work schedules, such as changes in shift timings or additional time off. However, employers are not obligated to grant all requests, but they must consider them in good faith.

In many cases, employers are required to provide additional compensation, often referred to as “predictability pay,” when they make changes to an employee’s schedule with short notice. The amount of compensation may vary depending on the jurisdiction.

No, employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees for exercising their rights under the Fair Workweek law. Retaliation can include actions such as termination, demotion, or reduction in hours or pay.

Employees who believe their employer has violated the Fair Workweek law should consider documenting the incidents and gathering any evidence. They can then file a complaint with the appropriate labor agency or consult with an employment attorney for further guidance.

Certain exemptions may exist depending on the jurisdiction and specific industry. For example, small businesses with a limited number of employees or industries with unique scheduling requirements may be exempt from certain provisions of the law.

Penalties for violating the Fair Workweek law can vary but may include fines, back pay for affected employees, and potential legal action by the employees. Employers may also be required to change their scheduling practices to comply with the law.