Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
The Firm
201-896-4100 info@sh-law.comFirm Insights
Cincinnati Bengals May Have Violated Fair Labor Standards Act
Author: Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
Date: March 7, 2014
Key Contacts
Back
Fair Labor Standards Act Violation
NFL teams employ cheerleaders to roam the sidelines during games for the purpose of entertaining fans and cheering on the players. It also appears that some teams may be taking advantage of these women with poor wages as the second complaint in a few months was recently filed against a team. These issues may, in fact, violate the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Previously, Oakland Raiderettes claimed they were underpaid, and now a Cincinnati Bengal’s cheerleader has lodged a similar complaint. According to Fox Sports, Alexa Brenneman said she is compensated at most – $90 per home game – despite attending mandatory practices, public appearances and calendar posing and promotions.
The Complaint
Brenneman’s complaint accuses the Bengals of violating the Fair Labor Standards Act, which created a federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. She said she works more than 300 hours a year for the team, and her pay comes out to less than $2.85 per hour. If that is the case, the team is also in violation of the Ohio Minimum Fair Wage Standards Act, which states employees in Ohio must be paid at the wage rate of no less than $7.85 per hour, which is the current minimum wage in Ohio.
With the negative attention these cases have brought to the teams it will be interesting to see if the NFL changes its policies for using independent contractors – which cheerleaders are considered. Professional sports teams need to be sure that agreements with independent contractors meet federal and state labor laws or else risk facing legal action like the Oakland Raiders and Cincinnati Bengals.
Organizations that are unsure as to whether or not their agreements are in compliance with labor laws would be wise to seek the consultation of a sports attorney.
- Industries: Entertainment & Media
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Related Posts
See all
Rule 26 Expert Discovery: When an Expert Witness Uses AI, Is It Discoverable?
Case law following the 2010 amendments to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 26 offers guidance on how courts are likely to address whether an expert witness’s AI records are subject to discovery. Key Takeaways Rule 26 Expert Discovery After the 2010 Amendments This article addresses the question courts and lawyers have faced in recent cases: […]
Author: Chris Seelinger
How Expert Witness AI Use Ends Up in Discovery
“Show how 3M is 0% at fault.” The absurd tale of how a 350-page ChatGPT history for 3M’s expert witness was produced during a deposition is more likely than you think. It’s an inevitable trend, and an unsettled question for federal courts as experts make generative AI part of their workflow. Key Takeaways Expert Witness […]
Author: Chris Seelinger
The Screenshot Problem: Why Nothing Is Really Private Anymore
Screenshots have changed the risks of electronic communications. The screenshot problem is that messages intended for one person or a small group can be copied, forwarded, preserved, and ultimately presented to opposing counsel, regulators, journalists, customers, or a jury. Businesses should recognize that a truly private digital conversation is increasingly unreliable and ensure their policies, […]
Author: Sean M. Pena
BESS Project Agreements: Allocating Risk Among Developers, EPC Contractors, and Equipment Suppliers
Developers, engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractors, and equipment suppliers each play a critical role in completing a BESS project. However, when equipment costs rise, deliveries are delayed, or regulations change, determining who bears the financial consequences can become contentious. Well-drafted project agreements are essential to sound risk allocation. Key Takeaways This article is Part […]
Author: Nicholas Wall
IP Infringement: What Steps Can You Take If You're Affected?
IP infringement occurs when someone uses your intellectual property without your permission or beyond the scope of the permission you granted. Common examples of IP infringement include copying a product’s patented features or using a trademarked logo in a way that is likely to confuse consumers about the source or affiliation of goods or services. […]
Author: Michael Mietlicki
Public Allegations, Unfinished Investigation: What New Jersey Businesses Should Do Next
When facing public allegations of wrongdoing, companies should not let the speed of the public conversation dictate the speed of an investigation. An investigation designed to confirm a preferred narrative rather than establish the facts can create serious problems later, particularly if litigation, regulatory scrutiny, or employment claims follow. Key Takeaways When public allegations surface […]
Author: Sean M. Pena
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.