The Oklahoma Department of Labor (ODOL) has announced a significant victory for Oklahoma workers, recovering more than $1.25 million in unpaid wages and liquidated damages during the 2024 fiscal year. This recovery reflects the agency’s firm dedication to enforcing labor laws and upholding workers’ rights throughout the state.

According to a release from ODOL, the department successfully retrieved a total of $1,259,228.40 in owed compensation, including $1,038,347.40 in unpaid wages and $220,881.00 in liquidated damages. These funds were distributed to 414 claimants, with 66 individuals receiving both back wages and liquidated damages. Notably, the largest single recovery was a staggering $190,000.00 in unpaid wages.

Labor Commissioner Leslie Osborn praised the efforts of her department in addressing wage violations and ensuring Oklahoma workers are treated fairly.

“This accomplishment highlights our continuous efforts to safeguard the rights of Oklahoma’s workforce,” said Osborn. “We remain steadfast in our mission to enforce labor laws and ensure that employees are paid what they rightfully earn. Every dollar recovered represents a victory for fairness and accountability.”

FY 2024 Wage Recovery by the Numbers:

• Total Wage Claims Filed: 801

• Total Wages Collected: $1,038,347.40

• Liquidated Damages Collected: $220,881.00

• Total Recoveries: $1,259,228.40

• Claimants Paid: 414 received back wages; 66 also received liquidated damages

• Largest Single Recovery: $190,000.00 — Combating Wage Theft

The ODOL emphasized that wage theft – which can include practices such as paying below the minimum wage, denying overtime pay or requiring employees to work off the clock – is a serious violation of state labor laws and a threat to workers’ financial security. Such violations can have far-reaching consequences for families and communities.

“The economic importance of wages being paid cannot be overstated,” said David Bryan, Assistant General Counsel and Director of the Employment Standards Division. “When workers receive what they’ve earned, they can pay rent, buy groceries and support their families. This income circulates through local economies and strengthens communities across Oklahoma.”

— Filing a Wage Claim

ODOL urges any worker who believes they are owed wages to file a claim. The process is designed to be simple and accessible. Workers can submit claims online at oklahoma. gov/labor/workplace-rights/wagehour. html. The department encourages all employees to understand their rights and take action if they suspect any form of wage theft or labor violation.