A recent settlement saw Mauritson Farms in Healdsburg, Sonoma County, agreeing to compensate 21 former farmworkers with a total of $328,077 for lost wages.
The decision came after these employees, associated with the H-2A visa program, alleged retaliation when they voiced concerns over poor working conditions. The complaints ranged from unsanitary restrooms to denied meal breaks.
While Mauritson Farms’ management asserts they didn’t violate the Agricultural Labor Relations Act and termed the settlement a “business decision,” this case is being hailed as a significant win for workers’ rights.
The case gained traction after the aggrieved workers allied with the Santa Rosa-based nonprofit, North Bay Jobs with Justice. By 2022, none of these workers were rehired, prompting the nonprofit to lodge an official complaint.
In the settlement aftermath of the lost wages and retaliation lawsuit, the Agricultural Labor Relations Board will ensure workers at Mauritson Farms are well-informed of their rights, ensuring such disputes are minimized in the future.
Davida Sotelo Escobedo from North Bay Jobs with Justice remarked, “This showcases the growing strength workers have built in recent years, standing against employer abuses.”
If you’ve faced employer violations, it’s time to stand up for your rights. Contact Labor Law Advocates in California today, and we’ll guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit and seeking rightful compensation. With experienced, passionate attorneys on your side, you’ll have the resources and support to stand up for justice. Get in touch with our employment attorneys now.
