Candidate for Attorney General Calls Wage Theft a Crisis in Florida

According to a report from WLRN, a Florida candidate for Attorney General is calling wage theft a “crisis” in the state that requires far more attention from authorities. José Javier Rodríguez (Democrat) rallied with worker rights advocates and emphasized his view that more needs to be done to address the fact that employees are losing millions of dollars to wage theft each year.

Report: Attorney General Candidate Rodríguez Wants to Take On Wage Theft

Democratic candidate for Florida Attorney General José Javier Rodríguez pledged to make wage theft enforcement a top priority if elected. Speaking in Miami Springs, Attorney General Candidate Rodríguez criticized years of alleged state inaction on the issue. He contends that it allowed employers to underpay workers and, in the process, cost Floridians over $1 billion in lost wages. He cited studies showing the state’s minimum wage law has gone largely unenforced for a decade, despite voter approval of gradual increases to $15 per hour by 2026. Labor advocates joined him in calling wage theft a “quiet epidemic” in Florida and throughout the country. The Attorney General of Florida plays a big role in enforcing wage theft cases and other wage and hour issues in the state.

Note: There is a long way to go before the next election for Attorney General in Florida. Florida’s Attorney General race is on November 3, 2026. The statewide primary is August 18, 2026.

What Does Wage Theft Actually Mean?

Wage theft refers to the failure of an employer to pay workers the full compensation they are legally owed. It can take several forms, including unpaid hours, below-minimum-wage pay, denial of overtime, illegal paycheck deductions, and/or the misclassification of an employee as an independent contractor. In Florida, wage theft often affects low-wage and hourly workers in sectors such as hospitality, construction, and domestic labor. However, it can affect any employee, including highly-compensated executors.

Wage Theft Victims Can Take Legal Action

A worker in Florida can file a civil claim for unpaid wages directly against their employer. Under Article X, Section 24 of the Florida Constitution and Florida Statutes § 448.110. Notably, employees have a private right of action to recover unpaid minimum wages. Before filing a lawsuit, the worker must send a written notice to the employer detailing the underpayment and allowing 15 days to resolve the claim. If the employer does not pay, the worker may then bring a civil action in state court. Successful claims can result in back pay, liquidated damages, attorneys’ fees, and court costs. A Florida wage and hour attorney can help you navigate the employment claims process.

Get Help From Our Florida Wage Theft Attorney Today

Wage and hour claims, including wage theft cases, can be complicated. The right attorney can protect your rights and your interests. If you have any questions about wage theft, please do not hesitate to contact our Florida employment attorney today.