NEW YORK (WPIX) -
Two waitresses have launched a class-action lawsuit against the Hooters of Long Island chain, claiming the restaurants violate labor laws by forcing them to pay for their own uniforms.
Gina Rosati of Copiague and Amy Frederick of Bayside say the chain requires employees to shell out just under 20 dollars to buy the uniform, which consists of orange hot pants, a tight-fitting Lycra tank top, pantyhose and white socks.
In the lawsuit, the women allege if an employer requires a uniform that is not part of a regular wardrobe, the employer should be required to pay. In addition, it alleges waitresses are paid only $4.60 an hour and are forced to give up 2-percent of their tips to the kitchen staff.
Louis Perchman, the women's lawyer, said what Hooters is doing is illegal.
Strix LLC, which owns and operates Hooters restaurants, have not commented on the issue.
Gina Rosati of Copiague and Amy Frederick of Bayside say the chain requires employees to shell out just under 20 dollars to buy the uniform, which consists of orange hot pants, a tight-fitting Lycra tank top, pantyhose and white socks.
In the lawsuit, the women allege if an employer requires a uniform that is not part of a regular wardrobe, the employer should be required to pay. In addition, it alleges waitresses are paid only $4.60 an hour and are forced to give up 2-percent of their tips to the kitchen staff.
Louis Perchman, the women's lawyer, said what Hooters is doing is illegal.
Strix LLC, which owns and operates Hooters restaurants, have not commented on the issue.
