NJDOL Enforces Stop-Work Order on Contractor at American Dream Mall

S&S Plumbing Corp Faces Compliance Actions for Worker Misclassification

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – On March 12, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) issued a stop-work order against S&S Plumbing Corp., a Wayne-based contractor, for violations detected during work at the American Dream Mall. 

The NJDOL's Division of Wage and Hour and Contract Compliance identified several infringements including the improper classification of construction workers, failure to properly classify employees, and failure to register as per state regulations.

This enforcement action impacts one worker directly, but it signifies NJDOL's broader commitment to protect workers and ensure fair labor practices. Since July 2019, when the Governor and Legislature expanded the NJDOL's authority, the department has issued 158 stop-work orders. 

These orders are a tool to pause operations where there are concerns of worker exploitation or non-compliance with New Jersey's labor laws and regulations.

Employers receiving a stop-work order have the right to appeal, upon which the NJDOL is obliged to arrange a hearing within seven days. The department monitors sites under stop-work orders closely, imposing civil penalties of $5,000 per day against any employer found to violate the order. A stop-work order can be lifted once back wages and penalties are paid, and all compliance issues are resolved.

The NJDOL, alongside the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and the New Jersey Department of Education, has also issued reminders to local governments and boards of education about their obligations under the New Jersey Prevailing Wage Act. These efforts aim to ensure that public works contractors are duly registered and adhere to state labor laws, thereby preventing project delays and additional costs.

The department maintains a comprehensive list of registered public works contractors, encouraging government agencies to consult this resource before initiating projects. This practice aims to safeguard project timelines and budgetary allocations. 

Furthermore, registered contractors are mandated to participate in Registered Apprenticeship programs, reinforcing the state's commitment to fostering skill development and training for New Jersey's construction workforce.

For more information on labor rights and protections, NJDOL encourages workers and employers alike to visit myworkrights.nj.gov.