ATLANTA — One of the nation’s busiest entertainment companies is in trouble with the U.S. Department of Labor after investigators found they were not paying certain employees the overtime wages they were entitled to.
Top Golf USA has large, golf driving range facilities with bars and restaurants situated in 31 states and multiple countries. Two of the locations in Georgia, Alpharetta and Midtown Atlanta, were among the locations in 25 states where the violations occurred.
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Investigators said the company was paying sales managers and event sales consultants a salary plus commission with no overtime after a 40 hour work week. They said those employees did not meet supervisory requirements and were eligible for overtime pay. They added that the investigation was opened after the violations were found at the company’s Loudon, Virginia location.
The Department of Labor said the company’s policy violated the Fair Labor Standards Act.
The investigation led to 255 employees in 25 states receiving over $750,000 in back pay. It includes four employees at the Alpharetta Top Golf location and seven employees at the Atlanta Midtown location.
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“Employers cannot evade federal overtime requirements by simply giving an employee a manager’s title,” said Wage and Hour Southwest Regional Administrator Betty Campbell. “This case should serve as a clear warning and prompt other employers to review their pay practices. Employers uncertain of their obligations should contact their local Wage and Hour District Office or visit our website for guidance on how to comply with federal law.”
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The company has two other locations in Georgia--one in Buford and one in Augusta. Neither were named in this legal action.
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