Travis County updates federal partnership to crack down on wage thefts

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Travis County leaders are working with the federal government to minimize wage theft across the county, officials announced Tuesday.

The Travis County District Attorney's Office announced its collaboration with the U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division to "enhance efforts against wage theft in Travis County," per the release. The latest agreement marks an update to the existing partnership between the two entities, permitting them to share information, lead joint investigation and unify behind enforcement efforts.

Back in September 2021, the Travis County District Attorney's Office rolled out its Economic Justice Enforcement Initiative, which allocated extra resources to help prosecute wage theft and similar work-related crimes. Then in November 2021, the DA's office signed its initial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division.

That division's work centers around the enforcement of federal minimum wage and overtime laws, and leads in or assists on investigations related to reported violations.

Those who witness alleged wage theft incidents can report them to the DA's office online or by emailing TCDAWageTheft@traviscountytx.gov.

"We are thrilled to announce our continuing collaboration with the U.S. Department of Labor," Travis County District Attorney José Garza said in the release. "We understand that addressing economic stability is fundamental to enhancing public safety in our community. This new agreement between our agencies will enable us to continue to pursue justice for victims of wage theft in Travis County and ensure that employers who engage in unlawful practices are held accountable."