Green v. Illinois Department of Human Services

**Worker Wins $162,000 After Company Failed to Pay for Off-the-Clock Work** This case involved a production manager at Patriot Erectors, L.L.C. who wasn't being paid for work performed outside of regular hours. The employee claimed the company violated federal wage laws by requiring off-the-clock work without proper compensation under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The court ruled in favor of the worker, finding that Patriot Erectors willfully violated federal wage laws. The company was ordered to pay $162,302.72 in total damages, which included unpaid overtime compensation, additional penalty damages, and the worker's attorney's fees. The appeals court upheld this decision, confirming the original ruling was correct. This victory matters for workers because it reinforces that employers must pay for all time worked, even if it happens outside normal business hours. The case shows that courts will hold companies accountable when they deliberately ignore wage laws. Workers who perform off-the-clock duties may be entitled to back pay, penalty damages that double their losses, and help with legal costs. This ruling strengthens protections for employees who are pressured to work without proper compensation.