Law 275 - Work, Poverty, and the Law (Prof. Zatz)

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Low-wage work is central to current anti-poverty efforts in the United States, efforts proceeding against the backdrop of a changing labor market, a globalizing economy, and a renewed emphasis on work in the social welfare system.  This course surveys legal and policy topics with special significance for low-wage workers, such as minimum and living wage laws and the application of labor and employment law to sub-contracting arrangements, temp agencies, the informal economy, and domestic work. Attention will be given throughout to how gender and race structure low-wage work and the law governing it. Often we will explore topics at the intersection of employment and other bodies of law, for instance labor protections for undocumented immigrants, prison inmates, and participants in welfare work programs. Additionally, we will consider alternatives to direct regulation of the employer-employee relationship; examples include cash transfers through tax, social insurance, or welfare systems and in-kind benefits such as subsidized child-care and job training programs.

 Grades will be determined based on class participation and a choice of either one substantial research paper or a series of short reaction papers.  Although there is no formal prerequisite, the class is intended for students with prior coursework or relevant experience in employment, employment discrimination, labor, or social welfare law.