What differentiates "exempt" employees from "non-exempt" employees?

The distinction between "exempt" and "non-exempt" employees primarily revolves around eligibility for overtime pay. Exempt employees, as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), are not entitled to receive overtime pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. This classification typically applies to employees who perform specific types of duties that fall within established exemptions, such as management, professional, or administrative roles.

In contrast, non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay, meaning they receive compensation at a higher rate for hours worked beyond the standard 40-hour workweek. This classification is meant to ensure that employees who work more than the typical hours are compensated fairly for their additional time.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the defining characteristics of exempt versus non-exempt employees. For instance, the notion that exempt employees receive less training or that non-exempt employees have more responsibilities does not hold true universally, as training and responsibilities can vary widely irrespective of the employee's exemption status. Additionally, non-exempt employees are actually eligible for overtime pay, which is the core difference that underscores the meaning of these classifications.