Feds settle Mich. wage lawsuit for farm workers

COPEMISH, Mich. (AP) -- Nineteen migrant farm workers will share $8,300 under an agreement between the government and a farmer in northern Michigan. Ron Howes was accused of providing inadequate housing and not paying proper wages during the 2011 cucumber season. The farm in Manistee County grows cucumbers that are turned into pickles. An agreement filed in Grand Rapids federal court this week shows some workers will get $1,100. Other amounts vary, from $50 and up. Howes agreed to pay a $3,500 penalty to the U.S. Labor Department. Howes also agreed to follow federal labor law on wages and housing. Published: Fri, Sep 13, 2013