Legal Definitions - Department of Labor

The Department of Labor is a part of the federal government that is responsible for improving working conditions and opportunities for employment. It was created in 1913 and is headed by the Secretary of Labor. The abbreviation for the Department of Labor is DOL.

The Department of Labor helps to ensure that workers are treated fairly and have access to safe working conditions. For example, they may investigate complaints of workplace discrimination or unsafe working conditions. They also provide resources and support for job seekers, such as job training programs and unemployment benefits.

Another example of the Department of Labor's work is enforcing labor laws, such as minimum wage and overtime regulations. They may investigate employers who violate these laws and take legal action to ensure that workers are paid fairly.

These examples illustrate how the Department of Labor works to promote the welfare of wage earners and improve working conditions and opportunities for employment.