Minimum Wage
As of July 24, 2009, the minimum wage in Florida is $7.25 an hour. This minimum wage applies to all employees in Florida State who are covered by the federal minimum wage. However, some industries make allowances for tips and therefore can set a lower hourly pay. For example, food service workers who earn tips as part of their total compensation may earn $4.23 an hour. Allowances are given for employees who are required to maintain their uniforms and for employers who supply meals and lodging.
Under federal law, salaried managers are not allowed to share in the tips.
At Will Employment
Florida is an "at will" employment state. As such, at-will employees can be terminated for any reason. The only exception is for employees who are covered by a contract or union agreement governing the terms of employment. Employees who are covered by an employment contract can usually only be terminated for the reasons set out in the contract. At-will employment also protects the employee's right to resign.
Unlawful terminations violate legal protections, including discrimination or harassment, whistleblower protections, absence to serve on a jury, retaliation for asserting legal rights or violations of employment or union contracts. In such cases a fired employee could potentially file a wrongful termination claim.
Right to Work
Florida is a Right-to-Work state, meaning that a person cannot be denied a job based on union membership. A person can choose to be a part of a union or not be part of a union—either way, his or her job status cannot be determined by union status.
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
The Fair Labor Standards Act is a federal law regarding employee wages and hours worked, including overtime hours and wages. Under the FLSA, some workers can be exempted from overtime pay. However, those workers must fit the criteria the FLSA sets out for exemption. Florida's laws also apply to employment subject to the FLSA. In cases where both the FLSA and state law apply, the law setting the higher standards must be observed.
More information on how the Fair Labor Standards Act applies to overtime can be found
here.
Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)
The Occupational Safety and Health Act is a federal law enacted to ensure that employees work in an environment that is free from recognized hazards. It is part of the United States Code, Title 29, Chapter 15.
Federal laws also protect employees from sexual harassment and discrimination, including race, age, disability and pregnancy discrimination.
Employees who feel their rights have been violated may have the opportunity to bring their complaint before the courts.
Naples, FL: A children's hospital is the subject of Florida labor law arbitration, with a former respiratory therapist claiming that she was wrongfully terminated after speaking out about mislabeled hospital equipment. [ 
Fort Pierce, FL Employees who believe they were discriminated against in their jobs may be able to file a lawsuit to protect their rights. Some Florida employment lawsuits have been filed, alleging the employees were victims of discrimination on their jobs. Others have filed lawsuits alleging their employers violated federal employment laws. [ 
