'California Slaps Amazon with $5.9 Million Fine for Violating Labor Laws'
Money | June 18, 2024, 12:54 p.m.
California labor officials recently fined Amazon $5.9 million for violating the Warehouse Quota Law, which aims to protect warehouse workers' health and safety by limiting work speed quotas that could lead to disciplinary actions. The investigation found that Amazon failed to inform employees of their quotas at two facilities near Los Angeles. The undisclosed quota system increased pressure on workers to work faster, leading to potential safety risks and higher injury rates. This is the largest fine issued by the California Labor Commissioner's Office under this law. Amazon, known for its fast-paced work environment, is also facing scrutiny from federal regulators for workplace safety issues. While the fines are small compared to Amazon's revenue, they highlight the importance of upholding labor laws to protect workers. The law was sponsored by former union official Lorena Gonzalez and supported by labor unions like the Teamsters, who are providing resources to the Amazon Labor Union in their fight for workers' rights.