What was the primary purpose of the Fair Labor Standards Act?

The primary purpose of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) was to establish minimum wage and overtime pay standards. Enacted in 1938, the FLSA aimed to improve labor conditions by setting a minimum wage that employers must pay their employees and ensuring that workers receive overtime pay for hours worked over a standard workweek. This legislation was significant in shaping modern labor rights, as it helped to guarantee a baseline level of economic security for workers while also promoting fair compensation for extra hours worked.

Setting these standards was a critical step in addressing labor exploitation during a time when working conditions were often poor and labor rights were limited. The establishment of a minimum wage helped lift many workers out of poverty and contributed to the broader economy by ensuring that individuals had disposable income to spend. Additionally, the overtime provision encouraged employers to hire more workers rather than overworking their current employees, further contributing to job creation.