WLEN: Walberg Supports Proposed Federal Joint-Employer Rule Change

U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg is praising a proposed federal labor rule change that would revise how multiple businesses can be held responsible for the same workers under several workplace laws.

The U.S. Department of Labor announced April 22 a proposed rule addressing joint-employer status under the Fair Labor Standards Act, Family and Medical Leave Act, and Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act. The agency said the proposal is intended to create a more uniform standard, reduce litigation, and provide regulatory clarity.

Joint-employer status can apply when two businesses share control over a worker’s job conditions, such as hiring, scheduling, pay, or employment records. When that status is found, both entities can share legal responsibility for wage or leave violations.

Walberg, chairman of the House Education and Workforce Committee, said the proposal would reduce burdens on employers and help businesses grow.

According to the Department of Labor, the proposal would be subject to a 60-day public comment period before any final rule is adopted. No immediate changes are now in effect.

Supporters say the move would create clearer rules for employers. Critics argue narrower standards could make it harder for some workers to recover unpaid wages from larger companies that use contractors or franchise models.