Wausau-Based North Central Health Care Accused of Denying Overtime Pay

Thursday, May 16th, 2024 -- 9:00 AM

(Mike Leischner, WSAU) Wausau-based North Central Health Care has been accused of denying overtime pay for managers in the North Central Community Services Program and Affiliates community treatment program, according to Mike Leischner with WSAU.

According to a news release from the US Department of Labor current and former case managers reported off-the-clock work, a heavy caseload, and reluctance or refusal from management to approve the overtime necessary to complete their work.

Investigators looked at timesheets from June 17, 2021, through June 16, 2023, and found case managers were denied overtime despite their heavy workload. Some employees also reported working while off the clock to complete their cases.

“These case managers continued to go above and beyond to service the needs of their clients, while their employer refused to hear their complaints and pay them the wages they rightfully earned for their hard work and dedication,” said Wage and Hour District Director Kristin Tout in Minneapolis. “Employers are legally responsible for knowing and complying with federal wage laws.”

The complaint, announced on Tuesday, seeks back wages, liquidated damages, and an injunction against the employer from violating the Fair Labor Standards Act.

A spokeswoman for NCHC said they couldn’t comment on the specifics of the case because it involves pending litigation but added “NCHC has confidence in the legal system to handle this matter fairly and effectively.”

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