Final answer:
The Fair Labor Standards Act mandates a standard workweek of 40 hours. After this threshold, overtime pay is required. Historical data shows variations, but the FLSA standard remains constant.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) mandates a standard workweek at a maximum of 40 hours. Once an employee exceeds working 40 hours in a week, the FLSA requires payment of overtime pay. It’s worth noting that while this act sets the federal standard, the average hours worked can vary. For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, full-time U.S. workers averaged 42.5 hours per week in 2014. Nonetheless, the specific mandate for a regular workweek as per the FLSA is 40 hours, after which employers are required to compensate employees with overtime pay.