(The Center Square) – More than $2.5 million in unpaid wages was recovered for workers across North Carolina in the last fiscal year ending June 30, the Department of Labor says.
In a report released Wednesday, 270 complaints in Wake County leading to $786,971.08 recovered led all 100 counties in volume of both categories. Mecklenburg County was next at 248 complaints generating $326,898.18 in recoveries.
At more than 1.1 million and 1.2 million respectively, they are the two largest by population in the state.
“This detailed breakdown reveals just how widespread wage violations are – touching workers in every corner of our state and spanning a broad spectrum of industries,” said first-term Republican Labor Commissioner Luke Farley. “At the North Carolina Department of Labor, our mission is clear: to stand up for every worker, no matter their job or location, and ensure they receive every dollar they’ve rightfully earned. This isn’t just about numbers – it’s about justice for families who depend on their promised pay to build their lives, pay rent, and put food on the table.”
Farley’s release said violations were in 31 industries, led in volume by retail/services (566), eating/drinking establishments (237), medical (188), construction (121) and transportation (106). The report listed 1,683 complaints.
