Camp Gladiator, a fitness boot camp company, has faced a lawsuit filed by a former trainer alleging unpaid wages and misclassification as an intern.
Key Points:
- Date: July 15, 2023
- Claim: Shannon Schoellhorn, a former trainer, filed a class-action lawsuit against Camp Gladiator in the U.S. District Court in Dallas. The lawsuit alleges that Camp Gladiator violated the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) by failing to pay minimum wage to intern trainers and failing to pay overtime to primary trainers.
- Internship Program: The lawsuit contends that Camp Gladiator’s internship program is not a legitimate educational program and that instead, interns are performing the same work as regular employees without receiving appropriate compensation.
- Overtime: The lawsuit also claims that primary trainers are not paid overtime for working more than 40 hours per week, which is a violation of the FLSA.
- Status: The lawsuit is currently ongoing. A class-action certification hearing has been scheduled for February 2024.
Impact of the Lawsuit:
If Camp Gladiator is found liable for the allegations, they could face significant financial penalties, including back pay for unpaid wages and damages. The lawsuit could also lead to changes in the company’s internship program and payroll practices.
Camp Gladiator’s Response:
Camp Gladiator has denied all allegations and maintains that they comply with all applicable labor laws. The company argues that their internship program is a valuable training opportunity and that their trainers are properly classified as exempt employees.
Future of the Lawsuit:
The outcome of the lawsuit will likely have a significant impact on Camp Gladiator and other fitness companies that utilize internship programs. If the court rules in favor of the plaintiff, it could lead to increased scrutiny of internship programs and greater protections for workers classified as interns.
Disclaimer: This information is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney for specific legal questions.
