Which body governs the federal minimum wage in the United States?

The federal minimum wage in the United States is governed by the Department of Labor (DOL). This agency oversees various aspects of labor laws, including wage and hour regulations. The DOL administers the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which established the minimum wage and sets the standards for overtime pay and youth employment.

The importance of the Department of Labor in this context cannot be overstated, as it is responsible for ensuring that employers comply with federal wage laws and that employees are fairly compensated for their work. This includes monitoring compliance and handling complaints related to wage issues.

The other bodies mentioned—all play significant roles in their respective areas—but do not have authority over federal minimum wage laws. For instance, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) focuses on workplace safety and health standards. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) deals with discrimination in the workplace, while the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is involved in consumer protection and antitrust laws. Therefore, the specific governance of federal minimum wage is firmly within the purview of the Department of Labor.