Which of the following describes a characteristic of non-exempt employees?

Non-exempt employees are primarily characterized by their entitlement to certain protections under wage and hour laws, specifically the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This legislation ensures that non-exempt employees receive at least the federal minimum wage for all hours worked and are eligible for overtime pay at a rate of one and a half times their regular pay for any hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek. This requirement is pivotal in distinguishing non-exempt employees from exempt employees, who typically do not receive overtime pay and may have different salary and job responsibilities.

In this context, the correct choice highlights the compliance aspect, indicating that non-exempt employees must operate within the guidelines set forth by these laws. Understanding this characteristic is crucial for employers to maintain legal compliance and for employees to know their rights regarding compensation.