Which legislative act was designed to improve labor conditions by regulating working hours and conditions?

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) was a landmark piece of legislation enacted in 1938, specifically aimed at improving labor conditions across the United States. It established key regulations regarding minimum wage, overtime pay, and the prohibition of child labor, thereby addressing various aspects of workers' rights and working conditions.

This act directly responded to the grievances of labor movements and the need for fair labor practices, especially during a time when industrialization had led to harsh working conditions and excessive hours for many employees. By mandating a 40-hour work week and setting minimum wage standards, the FLSA sought to ensure that workers were compensated fairly for their labor while promoting a healthier work environment.

In contrast, other acts like the National Labor Relations Act primarily focused on the rights of workers to organize and bargain collectively, the Child Labor Act addressed specific restrictions on child labor without broader employment standards, and the Mine Safety and Health Act aimed at protecting health and safety specifically within the mining industry. Thus, while all these acts contributed to labor rights, none offered the comprehensive approach to hours and conditions that the Fair Labor Standards Act did.