US Department of Labor Files Preliminary Injunction Against Benton Restaurant for Age Violations and Worker Retaliation
The owner of Tim’s Tavern in Benton, Arkansas, has agreed to comply with a preliminary injunction issued by the United States Department of Labor due to severe allegations of violating federal labor regulations. These violations include the illegal employment of minors, retaliating against workers, failing to pay minimum and overtime wages, and withholding tips. The Department of Labor took this action to protect the rights of the restaurant’s employees and ensure the employer complies with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
The investigation into Tim’s Tavern began in February, revealing disturbing practices by the owner, Tim Steppach. The restaurant allowed 14- and 15-year-old children to work inappropriate hours on school nights and weekends, which is in clear violation of child labor protections under the FLSA. Additionally, since August 2022, Steppach has failed to provide regular paychecks, did not pay the required minimum wage and overtime, and kept tips meant for employees.
The injunction bars the employer and individuals from retaliating against employees who exercise their rights under the FLSA. This includes threatening, intimidating, or discriminating against employees who report violations. The employer is also prohibited from contacting the retaliation victim directly and is required to comply with child labor protections.
The Department of Labor has also filed a complaint seeking relief for all FLSA violations, including full payment to employees for owed wages, overtime, and withheld tips, along with equal liquidated damages. This action underscores the Department of Labor’s commitment to enforcing worker protections and ensuring employers meet their legal and ethical obligations.
- Violations included:
- Employing children illegally outside permitted hours on school nights and weekends
- Failing to provide regular paychecks
- Not paying minimum and overtime wages
- Withholding employee tips
- Consequences of the injunction:
- No retaliation against employees who report violations
- No direct contact with the retaliation victim
- Compliance with child labor protections
