Wage and hour violations in urban labour markets: a comparison of<scp>L</scp>os<scp>A</scp>ngeles,<scp>N</scp>ew<scp>Y</scp>ork and<scp>C</scp>hicago

Abstract

Abstract This article compares violations of minimum wage laws and other labour standards in N ew Y ork C ity, L os A ngeles and C hicago. L os A ngeles has the highest violation rates, due to such factors as its industrial composition and disproportionately large number of small establishments, as well as its vast unauthorised immigrant population. In addition, L os A ngeles’ higher rates reflect the stricter legal standards in C alifornia. We conclude that, although stronger workplace laws and regulations are crucial, in the absence of effective enforcement, they may fail to prevent workplace violations.