Legal Question in Employment Law in Oregon

Re: labor law

Charging an employee for till shortages (or for breakage, etc.) by taking money from his or her wages is an illegal deduction. Payroll deductions are legal only for limited purposes and never without the employee's consent (except for tax withholdings, etc., required by law). An illegal deduction can subject the employer to a penalty by the Oregon Bureau of Labor. Also, should the employment end without the employer returning the illegally deducted amounts, the employee may have a wage penalty claim against the employer.

The employer may discipline an employee for errors in cash handling, breakage, etc.

The above is not specific legal advice but is offered for general discussion purposes only. Consult an experienced employment lawyer who can provide specific advice based on an examination and analysis of your specific situation.