Labor trafficking is an alarming issue that affects many workers across different industries. While many people assume that trafficking mainly occurs in construction or other physical labor jobs, the restaurant industry is actually a hotbed for labor trafficking.
Workers are often brought into the country with promises of good jobs. Unfortunately, those targeted by labor trafficking schemes end up in abusive working situations. Workers in the restaurant industry need to recognize the signs of labor trafficking and understand when they are being taken advantage of by their employers.
Delayed payment
One key warning sign is when an employer continually delays payment. Honest employers do not stall when it comes to paying their workers. If payday passes and the employer makes excuses about lack of payment, this could be a tactic to keep targeted workers under control.
Immigration discussions
Another red flag is when an employer frequently brings up immigration status. Employers who use this tactic might try to make workers believe they cannot find any other job due to their immigration status. This fearmongering is often a way to keep workers compliant and discourage them from seeking help.
Overworking
Long working hours with little to no breaks also indicate possible labor trafficking. Forcing employers to work well over 40 hours a week without proper breaks is not only exhausting but also illegal. This type of treatment is a common method of exploitation, keeping workers too tired to resist or seek other employment.
Lack of overtime pay
The absence of overtime pay is another sign of exploitation. In Texas, tipped hospitality workers must receive the full minimum wage after they reach 40 hours in a week, instead of just the tipped-worker minimum. Employers who knowingly use trafficked workers often ignore this law to further exploit their labor.
Labor trafficking is a hidden but undeniably serious problem in the restaurant industry. Workers have the right to call out these signs to protect themselves and others. Recognizing labor trafficking is the first step toward escaping exploitation and finding safety.