The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) (1938)

The FLSA is one of a handful of federal laws that establish the foundation for employee treatment. It is a major influence on how people are paid, in the employment of young people, and in how records are to be kept on employment issues such as hours of work. The law introduced a maximum 44-hour 7-day workweek, established a national minimum wage, guaranteed “time-and-a-half” for overtime in certain jobs, and prohibited most employment of minors in “oppressive child labor,” a term that is defined in the statute.

It applies to employees engaged in interstate commerce or employed by an enterprise engaged in commerce or in the production of goods for commerce unless the employer can claim an exemption from coverage. It is interesting to note that FLSA, rather than the Civil Rights Act of 1964, is the first federal law to require employers to maintain records on employee race and sex identification.

Sharam Kohan
Sharam Kohan

Sharam Kohan: Biography

Sharam Kohan is a seasoned professional with an extensive background in law, human relations, and organizational leadership. Currently a degree candidate for an LLM at UC Berkeley Law, Sharam brings a unique blend of legal education, hands-on experience, and a deep commitment to social justice and human rights.

With a career that spans diverse sectors, Sharam's expertise extends far beyond the classroom. He has served as a Human Relations Commissioner, contributing his leadership to Alameda County’s Human Relations Commission, where he worked on initiatives to improve community relations and promote equity. His dedication to social change is also evident in his philanthropic efforts as a donor to organizations like FACES SF, which provides vital resources and support to the Bay Area’s underserved communities.

An advocate for labor and employment rights, Sharam holds a specialization in Employment Law from Temple University School of Law, which has furthered his ability to navigate complex legal frameworks. His professional journey includes leadership roles across human resources and operations, where he has honed his ability to manage teams, shape organizational culture, and implement effective strategies that drive success. He also holds SHRM certification, further solidifying his expertise in human resources management.

As a writer and thought leader, Sharam has authored multiple works that delve into complex philosophical and legal topics. His books, Judgment, a Priori Itself and Sartre’s Conception of Freedom, explore the intersections of law, philosophy, and human freedom, blending his academic background with a passion for intellectual inquiry. These works have garnered attention for their thoughtful analysis and exploration of complex ideas, establishing Sharam as a respected voice in both legal and philosophical circles.

Though not a traditional legal scholar, Sharam’s interdisciplinary approach to understanding law and society has made him a sought-after commentator on topics ranging from legal theory to organizational dynamics. His writing can be found on various platforms, including his blog at Harvard, where he shares insights on law, politics, and social issues.

Sharam Kohan is a dynamic and forward-thinking professional with the knowledge, experience, and passion to contribute meaningfully to the legal, social, and business landscapes.

For more on Sharam Kohan’s work, visit his blog at archive.blogs.harvard.edu/kohan and his author pages on Amazon, including Judgment, a Priori Itself and Sartre's Conception of Freedom.

Articles: 222