What is the purpose of the Federal Wage Garnishment Law?

The Federal Wage Garnishment Law is designed to allow creditors to collect a portion of an employee's wages directly from their employer to settle debts. When an employee owes money and has failed to pay that debt, a court may issue a garnishment order, which mandates that a certain amount of the employee's earnings be withheld by their employer and sent to the creditor. This law ensures that creditors can receive payment while also establishing guidelines to protect employees from excessive garnishment.

In contrast, the other options focus on unrelated aspects of employment. Providing health insurance benefits pertains to different labor standards and policies. Protecting employees from workplace hazards is covered under occupational safety regulations, which prioritize health and safety in the workplace. Establishing wage standards for federal employees relates to regulations on minimum wage and pay equity rather than the process of garnishing wages to repay debts. Thus, the primary function of the Federal Wage Garnishment Law is clearly encapsulated in the option that indicates employers must pay a portion of employees' wages to creditors as mandated by court orders.