What is the primary focus of the Fair Labor Standards Act?

The primary focus of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is to set standards for wages and hours, which is crucial for ensuring that workers receive fair compensation for their labor and that their working hours are regulated. The FLSA establishes minimum wage laws, overtime pay requirements, and provisions for the employment of minors, all of which directly affect the earnings and working conditions of employees.

By setting these standards, the FLSA aims to reduce labor exploitation and promote a fair working environment for all workers. The act serves as a foundational piece of labor legislation in the United States, laying the groundwork for the rights of workers regarding compensation and hours worked. This focus addresses the need for both employee welfare and maintaining equality in the labor market, emphasizing fair pay and proper work hours as central tenets of just labor practices.