Denver Labor expands wage accountability efforts to protect workers

In a landmark year for worker protection, Denver Labor, under Auditor Timothy O’Brien, released its "2024 Annual Wage Theft Report," highlighting unprecedented efforts to combat wage theft. The report details the recovery of $2,070,153. 02 in wages for 4,505 workers, both of which are record highs. Targeted enforcement strategies were employed in industries notorious for wage violations, including gig staffing and strip clubs, ensuring comprehensive investigations into wage complaints. For the first time, over 100,000 payroll records were audited, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and fairness.

A study commissioned by O’Brien revealed that between 2007 and 2022, minimum wage violations cost Denver metro area workers an estimated $136 million annually. The city’s new subpoena power, granted by the Denver City Council, allows for more effective enforcement of wage laws, marking a significant step in protecting workers. "Every dollar matters," O’Brien stated, emphasizing the importance of these recovered wages for families. Denver Labor remains dedicated to maintaining these efforts into 2025, reinforcing its commitment to combat wage injustice.