In a development related to labor enforcement, New York Attorney General Letitia James announced a $1.5 million settlement with Alba Services, Inc., its owner, and affiliated companies regarding labor violations impacting over 700 workers. Following an investigation by the Attorney General’s office into practices at Alba, the settlement includes $1.4 million in restitution to be paid directly to the employees and $100,000 allocated for a settlement administrator.
During the investigation, it was uncovered that Alba Services failed to report multiple workplace injuries and resisted workers’ attempts to file compensation claims by issuing threats or attempting to buy their silence. There were at least 60 documented instances of this practice. In an official statement, Attorney General James said, "Today, I am proud to deliver $1.4 million to workers harmed by this misconduct." Workers who sustained injuries on the job faced pressure and intimidation.
Along with the financial compensation, Alba is required to implement changes to its workplace policies. This includes accurately reporting injuries, stopping retaliation against injured workers, and refraining from interfering with medical treatments. The company is also expected to establish and enforce sexual harassment prevention policies and will undergo several years of oversight by the Attorney General’s office.
The settlement concludes nearly a decade of Alba Services’ alleged misconduct, which included sending company representatives to doctor’s appointments to misreport injuries and creating a culture of sexual harassment. Reports indicate that Alba retaliated against individuals who challenged these practices, contributing to an environment of fear, especially among immigrant and non-union workers. Gary LaBarbera, President of the New York State Building Trades, described the settlement as a moment of accountability and justice for hundreds of tradesmen and tradeswomen affected by Alba's actions.
Local unions have expressed support for the settlement, with Anthony Vita of Local 79 describing it as a step toward creating a fairer environment for responsible contractors. Brendan Griffith, President of the NYC Central Labor Council, stated that the settlement indicates exploitation and retaliation against workers will not be tolerated in New York. Additionally, a foreman’s reported misconduct, which contributed to a hostile work environment for several employees, was among the reasons for his dismissal under the terms of the agreement.
