BREAKING: New York Attorney General Letitia James has just announced a lawsuit against UPS, alleging the company unlawfully withheld nearly $45 million in wages from seasonal workers over the past six years. The lawsuit, filed in Manhattan, claims UPS deprived tens of thousands of driver helpers and seasonal support drivers of fair compensation during the critical holiday delivery period.
According to the lawsuit, UPS forced employees to work off the clock and unjustly deducted pay for lunch breaks that were never taken. This practice has reportedly affected many workers employed from October to January, just when they play a crucial role in delivering an average of 22.4 million packages a day during the holiday rush.
“These individuals are struggling each and every day to make ends meet,” James stated at a press conference, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability. She initiated the investigation earlier this year after concerns were raised by the Teamsters Local 804 union regarding the treatment of these seasonal employees.
The lawsuit seeks not only back pay and penalties but also a court order mandating UPS to revise its timekeeping and payroll practices to ensure compliance with labor laws. This comes as UPS reported a staggering $91.1 billion in revenue last year, raising questions about how such substantial profits coexist with claims of wage theft.
In response, UPS issued a statement asserting its commitment to fair labor practices, saying it “takes all accusations of wrongdoing seriously” and firmly denies any intention to underpay employees. The company claims to offer industry-leading pay and benefits to its more than 26,000 employees in New York, defending its practices amidst growing scrutiny.
James, a Democrat, highlighted the often-overlooked contributions of seasonal workers, stating, “We oftentimes don’t think of these workers when we’re opening up our gifts for the holidays.” Her remarks struck a chord, spotlighting the human impact of corporate practices during one of the busiest times of the year.
As this lawsuit unfolds, it raises significant implications for UPS and its labor practices, sparking discussions on worker rights and corporate accountability. The outcome could reshape how the company operates during peak seasons and either reinforce or challenge its longstanding reputation in the shipping industry.
For now, all eyes will be on the court’s response to this urgent matter, as workers and advocates await a decision that could potentially restore fairness to UPS’s labor practices. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
