Two NFL teams are facing lawsuits filed by their cheerleaders. On January 22, an Oakland Raiderette sued the Raiders' organization on behalf of herself and her former and current cheerleaders, alleging that the Raiders violated California labor laws. Earlier this month, a cheerleader from the Bengals filed a suit against the Bengals' organization alleging wage and hour violations.
The Raiders pay the Raiderettes $125.00 per game, which equals $1,250 for a 10 home game season. The cheerleaders allege that when you consider time for photo shoots, time practicing, attending non game events, and additional time working before and after the game on game days, that the Raiders are only paying them about $5.00 per hour. This is well below California's minimum wage. The Raiders also do not pay the cheerleaders until the end of the season. The Raiderettes are also responsible for paying for their own hair and make up, events and photo shoots, and the team docks them if they forget to bring their correct pom-poms to practice. The Raiderettes are also obligated to attend 10 charity functions a year without pay.
The suit against the Bengals' organization is similar. The Ben-Gal cheerleader claims that she was paid $855 for 300 hours spent performing, practicing, and attending events, resulting in an hourly rate of $2.85 per hour. The cheerleaders were also responsible for paying for their transportation to and from games and events, specialized clothing, makeup, tanning, and whatever else the team required.
The Department of Labor is also investigating the Raiders.
If you are are owed wages or overtime pay, contact Ambuter Law for your free case evaluation.
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