CALIFORNIA – California Attorney General Rob Bonta has taken legal action against a construction subcontractor company operating in several counties across the state.
The subcontractor company, West Coast Drywall & Company, headquartered in Riverside, faces allegations of multiple labor violations and alleged wage theft affecting thousands of workers.
Miguel Gonzalez, who worked as a drywall installer for a decade, stated, “We were made to work Saturdays but were not paid overtime.” He noted that the company owed them numerous overtime hours, and payments sometimes arrived under alternate names.
The lawsuit filed includes claims dating back to August 2019. These include failure to pay outstanding wages, overtime pay, reimbursement for the use of personal tools and equipment, as well as the absence of pay stubs, breaks, and lunches, violating California labor laws.
According to the attorney general, approximately 7,000 construction industry employees have been victims of alleged wage theft and other labor violations in the past four years, raising concerns for potential additional victims.
Attorney General Bonta stated, “We are seeking monetary compensation for all workers, to ensure they are paid what they are owed.” Additionally, the Attorney General’s Office seeks a court order to stop illegal practices and impose fines of $2,500 per violation.
Gonzalez emphasized the importance of knowing labor rights: “We are not aware of the labor rights we have in California.” He recommended maintaining detailed work records to support claims.
The Carpenters and Contractors Cooperation Committee assisted workers in filing the complaint. They urge anyone affected to report by calling 619-643-3340 or via email.
