Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has announced that Amalfi Stone & Masonry Company, Inc., will pay $826,000 to resolve violations of payroll tax and labor code. The violations were a result of the company's past relationship with an unlicensed labor broker named Fabio Anselmo.

Attorney General Bonta emphasized the importance of holding companies accountable for unfair practices, stating, "Workers are the backbone of California’s economy, and all workers deserve to enjoy the fruits of their labor." He further added, "My office will continue to stand up for workers and defend labor laws and wages owed for workers across the state."

Director of the Employment Development Department (EDD) Nancy Farias expressed dedication to combating unlawful activity in the underground economy, emphasizing the collaborative effort with law enforcement to bring wrongdoers to justice.

Labor Commissioner Lilia García-Brower highlighted the joint liability laws in the construction industry, stating, "In this case, the company who contracted with an unlicensed contractor will pay the owed wages to workers."

The stipulated judgment requires Amalfi to pay $826,430, including back payroll taxes, restitution for the workers who were not paid overtime wages, a civil penalty, and the cost of a restitution administrator.

Anselmo, the unlicensed labor broker, recruited workers for Amalfi from Florida, who were not aware of their entitlement to overtime pay. Following the investigation, Amalfi ceased using Anselmo's services in 2020 and has taken steps to correct its practices in compliance with labor laws.

Attorney General Bonta's commitment to defending workers' rights and ensuring a fair labor market is evident through various actions, including the recent case against Amalfi Stone & Masonry Company.

The stipulated judgment is subject to court approval, and Amalfi's payment of the agreed amount will resolve the violations stemming from its association with the unlicensed labor broker.