Ensuring Workers Get PAID Act of 2025

The Ensuring Workers Get PAID Act would create a permanent Payroll Audit Independent Determination (PAID) program within the Department of Labor. This program would allow employers to voluntarily identify and correct violations of minimum wage and overtime requirements under federal labor law without facing penalties, provided they repay affected employees any back wages owed. The bill is based on a pilot program that operated from 2018 to 2019.

Under the proposed program, employers who participate in good faith would be able to conduct self-audits to resolve wage and hour violations within the statute of limitations. Employees who accept back wages through this process would relinquish their right to bring private lawsuits related to those violations. Supporters argue the program helps small businesses correct unintentional errors, while critics contend it weakens enforcement by limiting the Department of Labor's investigative authority and reducing workers' ability to pursue legal claims for wage theft.