Steffans Legal Files Wage and Hour Class Action on Behalf of Tufts Medical Center Employees

On January 3, 2023, Steffans Legal filed a wage and hour class action against Tufts Medicine Inc., Tufts Medical Center Inc., Tufts Shared Services Inc., Tufts Medical Center Parent Inc., The Lowell General Hospital, Melrose-Wakefield Hospital, and Lawrence Memorial Hospital alleging violations of the Massachusetts Wage Act. This class action alleges that the employer violated Massachusetts law by not providing employees with their final paychecks, including payment for unused vacation time, at the times required by Massachusetts law.

As to employees who resign, those checks need to be provided as part of the pay period immediately following resignation. As to employees who are let go, those checks need to be provided on their last day of work. M.G.L. ch. 149 s. 148. As explained more fully here, these prompt-payment requirements are strict and unforgiving. Employers who fail to comply with them are liable to their employers for triple damages, attorneys’ fees, interest, and costs. M.G.L. ch. 149 s. 150.

If you are a current or former employee at one of these health centers, or you have general questions as to the legality of wage and hour policies, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an employment lawyer.