Kansas Overtime Laws

Kansas provides overtime protection to employees through both state and federal laws. While the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) applies to most employers, the Kansas Minimum Wage and Maximum Hours Law (KMWMHL) and related regulations offer additional guidance and enforcement mechanisms.

Key Points About Overtime in Kansas:

Dual Overtime Protection: Kansas employees benefit from both the FLSA and the KMWMHL, ensuring overtime pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek.

State Regulations: The Kansas Secretary of Labor has enacted detailed regulations governing overtime, providing specific guidance for employers and employees.
Enforcement: The Kansas Secretary of Labor has the authority to investigate and enforce overtime violations under state law.

“Hybrid” Lawsuits: Kansas employees often file lawsuits combining state and federal overtime claims, pursuing class actions for state law violations and collective actions for FLSA violations.

Minimum Wage in Kansas

Kansas’s minimum wage is currently $7.25 per hour, aligning with the federal minimum wage. This applies to employees covered by the FLSA and those who are not.

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations for unpaid overtime claims in Kansas is generally 2 years under the Kansas Wage Payment Act. However, for willful violations under the FLSA, the statute of limitations can be extended to 3 years.

Damages for unpaid overtime

Kansas employees can typically recover the following damages under both state and federal law:

- - - - Unpaid overtime wages
        Liquidated (double) damages
        Attorneys’ fees

Need Legal Help with Kansas Overtime?

Understanding overtime laws in Kansas requires navigating both state and federal regulations. If you believe your employer has violated your rights, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel. Our experienced overtime attorneys can help you understand your options and pursue a claim for unpaid wages.