Is there a TN law that enforces back pay?

[Tn2307]

My employer has admitted to a pay equity error. My department head informed me of a pay equity error which entitled me to a substantial raise over a year ago. I should have received 3 times what I actually got. Although, they admitted to the error, I will not be receiving the back pay. They informed me that I would begin receiving the increase immediately but would not be compensated for the lost wages. Have they violated any TN labor laws by disallowing the back pay?

[Pattymd]

Was the error based on any law? Or was it just a clerical or other internal policy problem? And did the employer do this on their own or was it a result of a complaint you filed with an outside regulatory agency?

[Tn2307]

No the error was not based on a law. It was an internal error. I was not aware of it until they admitted to the mistake. I have not filed a complaint with a regulatory agency. I am trying to find out if I have grounds to file a complaint with a regulatory agency for the back pay.

[cbg]

Under the circumstances you describe, back pay is optional on the employer's part, not mandatory. No laws have been violated by their refusal to pay back pay.