Undocumented workers retain certain rights under United States labor law, regardless of immigration status. This includes protections against wage theft, unsafe working conditions, and discrimination. For instance, if an undocumented worker is injured on the job due to employer negligence, they may have grounds for a legal claim. This legal recourse aims to uphold fundamental workplace rights and ensure fair treatment for all individuals contributing to the workforce.
The ability of undocumented workers to pursue legal action serves several crucial functions. It deters exploitative employer practices, promotes workplace safety, and upholds the principle of equal application of the law. Historically, affording legal protections to vulnerable populations, regardless of immigration status, has been vital in preventing the creation of a marginalized underclass subject to abuse. This legal framework reinforces a more just and equitable labor market.