California Attorney General Rob Bonta has filed a lawsuit against Care Specialist HCS Inc., formerly known as TLC Home Care Services, and its previous operators, accusing them of violating labor laws by misclassifying in-home care workers as independent contractors instead of employees.
The lawsuit, filed in the Superior Court of California, Los Angeles County, claims that this misclassification has led to extensive wage theft and the denial of basic workplace protections for hundreds of workers, including minimum wage, overtime pay, meal breaks, rest periods, paid sick leave, and workers’ compensation benefits.
The complaint also alleges that the company falsely represented workers’ employment status to its clients, misleading them into believing that the care workers were treated as employees when they were not. Additionally, the company included non-compete clauses in client contracts, which are invalid in California.
Attorney General Bonta emphasized that misclassifying workers is illegal and harmful to both employees and the state. The lawsuit seeks injunctive relief, restitution, and penalties against Care Specialist HCS Inc.
The case was brought to the attention of the Attorney General’s office by the Pilipino Workers Center in Los Angeles. Care Specialist HSC Inc., previously operating as TLC Home Care Services, has been operating in California since at least 2016 and has employed numerous care workers, many of whom are Filipino immigrants.
Despite clear labor laws requiring employee classification and the company’s own representations to clients, the misclassification of care workers persisted even after new owners acquired the company in September 2022. This misclassification has not only harmed workers but also resulted in significant financial losses for the state due to reduced tax revenue.
Victims of Care Specialist HCS Inc.’s or TLC Home Care Services’ misconduct in California are encouraged to file a complaint with the California Attorney General’s Office at www.oag.ca.gov/report.
For expert assistance in filing a claim against employers who violate labor laws, individuals are strongly encouraged to reach out to Labor Law Advocates. Their dedicated team of professionals can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process.
Don’t hesitate to contact Labor Law Advocates to protect your rights and seek the justice you deserve.
