The Labor Relations Unit represents two state agencies: the Ohio Department of Commerce's Bureau of Wage & Hour Administration (ODOC) and the State Employment Relations Board (SERB). Each agency and board has regulatory authority and policy making authority.
In representing ODOC, Assistant Attorneys General in the Labor Relations Unit act on ODOC’s behalf to enforce Ohio’s Minimum Wage Laws under Ohio Revised Code 4111 and Ohio’s Prevailing Wage Laws (ORC 4115).
- Minimum-wage responsibilities: Ohio’s minimum wage is set annually by a system outlined in the state Constitution, which adjusts standards based on the consumer price index and cost-of-living changes.
For those employees who believe they have been paid less than the minimum wage or who were not paid overtime, ODOC investigates their complaints and issues a determination that specifies the amount of monies owed to them. Assistant Attorneys General in the Labor Relations Unit work to enforce that determination and recoup monies owed to Ohio employees.
- Prevailing-wage responsibilities: Ohio’s Prevailing Wage Laws require all workers on public improvement projects to be paid the correct rate according to their classification.
ODOC sets the prevailing wage rates, which vary depending upon the locality of the public improvement projects and collective bargaining agreements. Where there is noncompliance, employees may file a Prevailing Wage Complaint with ODOC. After an investigation, Commerce issues a determination that specifies the amount of monies owed to the employees. Assistant Attorneys General in the Labor Relations Unit work to enforce ODOC's determination and recoup monies owed to Ohio employees.
In representing SERB, the Labor Relations Unit:
- Provides legal advice
- Supports the enforcement of the Ohio Public Employees’ Collective Bargaining Act.
- Prosecutes unfair labor practice charges in administrative proceedings.
- Represents SERB in court proceedings throughout the state.
In addition, the unit provides legal advice to the State Personnel Board of Review as it carries out its statutory obligations to hear appeals from public employees.