Under California law, employers must pay their employees for time spent during security checks. The California Supreme Court reached that decision just last week in a case brought against Apple, Inc. You can read more about that decision here.

As we’ve explained, this is also likely the case under Massachusetts law because employers are requiring their employees to be on the premises during the security checks. Because it’s ‘required,’ it should be paid. Learn more about hours worked under Massachusetts law here.

Yesterday, REI agreed to pay $5,000,000 to settle claims brought by a former employee on behalf of herself and 7,000 other nonexempt REI employees who were required to undergo security checks after they had clocked out, meaning they weren't compensated for that time.

The parties have submitted the proposed settlement agreement to the court for approval. That submission includes a request that the lead plaintiff, Martha Reilly, receive a special payment of $10,000 for acting as class representative.

Steffans Legal is currently interviewing employees who spend time in security checks without compensation. If you have questions or would like to learn more, contact us today for a free consultation.