Damn, I recarneted As A Judge in Fantasy World

Chapter 122: Labor Standards Act [2]

Able couldn't help but notice the harsh realities faced by the commoners in both the Empire and Deliat.

The average monthly wage was about 2 Ceylons, which was absurdly low but sadly reflected reality. Half of this meager income went to food, leaving them living hand to mouth.

To survive, they had to save 12 shillings a year, buy clothes, and pay rent, making life a constant struggle.

It was no wonder the birth rate was so high; labor was directly tied to survival. But still, Able found it too little.

This was not a complaint made out of populism or a sense of superiority—this world was riddled with labor exploitation.

No matter how much one worked, it was impossible to achieve even a minimal standard of living. Workers were often forced to stay in "coffin" or "rope" dormitories. The former he understood, but the latter?

'You're talking about rope,' he thought grimly—a place where people slept while hanging from a long rope to avoid being bitten by rats or bugs.

In the morning, the ropes would be cut, waking the workers abruptly.

The cruelty of it was appalling. If this was the norm in the Empire, then Deliat was even worse.

"We will enforce the Labor Standards Act," Able announced firmly.

"What is that, Your Excellency the Governor?" someone asked.

"Please look at this," Able said, handing out copies of the newly established code of laws.

The law book, concise and straightforward, could be read in minutes. It covered working hours, rest periods, night shifts, safety, prohibition of workplace bullying, accident compensation, and employment contracts.

He planned to set up a labor office and appoint inspectors to ensure compliance.

"One, there will be strong opposition," Hosen Mirta voiced his dissent, reflecting the general sentiment among the managers.

Able knew that whenever he proposed something, Mirta would always find a reason to oppose it, making him an unlikely ally.

However, Able appreciated this challenge; it made him think twice.

'How can a man who can't even persuade his subordinates be qualified to be a leader?'

Able thought, smiling softly at Mirta. "But we have to do it anyway. We must prevent a situation where people work but don't get paid."

"The job market will shrink," Mirta argued.

"We just need to create a lot of good jobs. We're already doing that, aren't we?" Able countered.

The labor market in Deliat was indeed evolving. From the Q&L single-use factory to the Ryker Brick Factory, workers' conditions had started to improve.

As quality jobs increased, the bullies would have fewer workers to exploit and eventually would be forced to offer fair wages.

Still, the reality was harsh. There were always people exploiting the vulnerable, forcing the elderly into unsafe jobs without proper equipment.

This world was full of madness. "That was a very good idea, Mr. Hosen Mirta," Able said.

"Thank you, Your Excellency the Governor," Mirta replied.

"But, may I give you an example?" Able asked.

"Yes."

"What would you do if I took all your possessions and forced you to work for free?"

"Then, Your Excellency the Governor would be severely criticized. The reputation you have built up until now would crumble," Mirta answered.

"And what if you're so immoral that you don't care about criticism at all?"

Mirta fell silent, clearly grappling with the hypothetical scenario. He imagined losing everything and being forced to find another job, desperately hoping to use connections to get back on his feet. But what if Able decided to wield his influence against him?

"I will make sure you don't earn even a shilling a month," Able continued with a warning tone.

Mirta bowed his head, clearly shaken by the possibility. Able sensed the tense atmosphere in the conference room and smiled broadly.

"Surely, I wouldn't do that, would I? Let's discuss how to prevent such incidents from happening again."

"That is a valid point," Mirta conceded.

"If there is anything that should be removed or added, please let me know," Able invited. After some thought, the managers began voicing their suggestions.

"There are cases where wages are paid in kind, like grain or cloth, but it should be standardized into currency."

"Let's create a standard contract that everyone can understand."

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"We need support programs, like providing benefits to businesses with good reputations."

"Maybe offer tax savings?"

As the meeting progressed, the managers presented good ideas, though some were too ambiguous to be codified into law. Able noted everything, recognizing that while some ideas could become policy, others might only be practical as administrative measures.

"Okay. Let's start by setting up the labor office. Any volunteers?" Able asked.

Mirta, who had been reflective since their earlier conversation, raised his hand. "I will try, Your Excellency the Governor."

Able was surprised but pleased. Mirta was meticulous, and Able felt he could trust him. "Thank you, Mr. Labor Commissioner."

"It is an honor, Your Excellency the Governor," Mirta said with newfound resolve.

Deliat's government structure was informal and small, relying on existing job titles. But as society changed rapidly, Able realized it might be time to reorganize the government.

'I just want to relax, but it seems the world won't let me.' Able thought, knowing this mission was originally set by the Emperor.

When he learned that the opposition was mostly from imperial nobles, he saw the solution clearly.

"If it's nobles from the Empire, ignore them," Able instructed. "We'll just proceed."

Able's decision was firm, and his eyes glinted with resolve. The tension in the room thickened as he looked around, assessing the reactions of those present. Some nodded in agreement, recognizing the necessity of the new labor policies, while others shifted uncomfortably in their seats, contemplating the repercussions.

"We must lead by example," Able continued. "If we don't enforce these laws in our own lands, how can we expect anyone else to comply? And if the imperial nobles refuse to adapt, they will find themselves increasingly isolated."

The managers exchanged glances. The Governor's stance was clear—there would be no exceptions, no leniency for those clinging to the old ways. Able's reputation and authority were the driving force behind this movement, and few dared openly oppose him.