H1916

To further protect employees through a private right of action

Introduced·2/27/25
Introduced Text

Massachusetts H1916 establishes a private right of action for employees to recover unpaid wages and penalties from employers.

Massachusetts H1916 amends Chapter 149 of the General Laws to create a private right of action for employees to recover unpaid wages and penalties from employers. The bill allows non-profit organizations, labor organizations, and affected employees to bring actions on behalf of the Commonwealth. Successful plaintiffs can recover treble damages, penalties, and attorney fees. Employers must pay penalties into a wage enforcement fund, which supports affected employees in urgent need. The attorney general can intervene in these actions and collects a surcharge on awards.

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  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

D
1
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Calendar

Jul 29, 2025

1:00 PM

Joint Committee on The Judiciary Hearing

Jul 29, 2025

1:00 PM

Joint Committee on The Judiciary Hearing

History

Mar 26

House

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)

Oct 20, 2025

Joint

Hearing scheduled for 07/29/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:10 PM in A-2

Oct 20, 2025

House

Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order