A McDonald’s franchise operating in Oregon has agreed to a multi-million-dollar class action settlement that could result in payments of up to $872.49 for eligible workers.
The case centers on claims that hourly employees were not properly paid for short meal breaks, as required under Oregon labor law.
Overview of the McDonald’s Class Action Settlement
The lawsuit was filed against a McDonald’s franchise owned by UTB Enterprises and Goldenband LLC. Plaintiffs alleged that the franchise violated state labor regulations by failing to compensate workers for meal breaks that lasted less than 30 minutes during qualifying shifts.
To resolve the dispute, the franchise owners agreed to a $3.5 million settlement. While the defendants deny any wrongdoing, they chose to settle the case to avoid prolonged litigation and potential future legal costs.
Who Is Eligible to File a Claim?
To qualify for compensation under this settlement, individuals must meet all of the following conditions:
- Worked as an hourly employee at a McDonald’s location operated by UTB Enterprises or Goldenband LLC
- Employment occurred on or after March 8, 2014
- Were scheduled for six-hour shifts
- Were entitled to a meal break of less than 30 minutes that was not paid
Most eligible workers have already been notified by the settlement administrators and were automatically included in the class unless they choose to opt out.
How Much Money Can Eligible Employees Receive?
Settlement payments are calculated based on the number of eligible workweeks an employee worked during the covered period:
| Eligible Workweeks | Estimated Payment |
|---|---|
| 0–10 weeks | $31.14 |
| 11 or more weeks | Up to $872.49 |
It’s important to note that actual payout amounts may vary. If a large number of eligible employees submit claims, the total settlement fund will be divided among more participants, which could reduce individual payments.
Key Deadlines You Should Know
Several important dates apply to this settlement:
- January 7 – Deadline to opt out of the settlement (for automatically included class members)
- March 8, 2026 – Final deadline to submit a claim
- March 27 – Final approval hearing
- After March 27 – Payments are expected to be distributed following court approval
Failing to act before the deadlines could result in losing the right to compensation.
This McDonald’s Oregon franchise settlement offers meaningful compensation to employees who were allegedly denied pay for short meal breaks over several years.
With potential payouts reaching $872.49, eligible workers should carefully review their eligibility, confirm their claim status, and take action before the March 8, 2026 deadline. While the franchise owners deny any violations, the settlement provides financial relief without requiring lengthy court proceedings.
FAQs
Do the franchise owners admit to breaking labor laws?
No. UTB Enterprises and Goldenband LLC have not admitted any wrongdoing. The settlement was reached to resolve the dispute and avoid further litigation.
Do I need to file a claim if I was already notified?
In many cases, eligible employees were automatically included. However, you should review your notice to confirm whether any additional action is required.
Can I opt out of the settlement?
Yes. If you were automatically added to the class and do not wish to participate, you must opt out by January 7.
Source: DanKaminisky
Source Link: https://dankaminsky.com/mcdonalds-franchise-to-issue-872-49-payments/