CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — West Virginia's House has passed legislation to let employers deduct from a worker's final paycheck the cost of unreturned company equipment and uniforms valued at $100 or more.
The bill, approved 61-35 on Monday, would apply where employees sign an agreement to take care of the company property. They would have an additional 10 days to return the property.
Judiciary Committee Chairman John Shott says employers could deduct the original cost of equipment, such as an iPhone or uniform, despite subsequent use or depreciation because the equipment is needed by the departed worker's replacement.
The law wouldn't apply to workers covered by union agreements.
Those who challenge deductions in court and win could collect those wages, plus damages equal to twice the original amount and attorney fees.