Financial woes at Neverland Valley Ranch could be over by Monday

The California Labor Commission this week sent Jackson a letter threatening legal action if he does not pay $306,000 in back wages to employees. The commission has received complaints from 46 Neverland employees, said Department of Industrial Relations spokesman Fryer said. Jackson has until Tuesday to make the payments or face unspecified "legal action" and a $100,000 fine, according to the letter, sent Tuesday. Jackson was not on the ranch when an enforcement officer delivered the order, said spokeswoman Raymone Bain. "It's fairly well known he's been overseas," Bain said. "... I'm certain that all of this is going to be resolved." Michael Jackson's business office is scrambling to reinstate workers compensation insurance for the 69 employees at his Los Olivos ranch, and that policy should be in effect today or Monday, the News-Press has learned. "I have no doubt that it will be worked out very soon," Jackson spokeswoman Raymone Bain told the News-Press. A state investigation allegedly shows Mr. Jackson has not paid some employees since late December, and the required workers comp policy lapsed in January, authorities said. He is being asked to pay about $470,000 in back wages and fines. Dean Fryer tells the News-Press today: "We're still in contact with his representatives at the ranch, and they're still attempting to secure workers compensation insurance." Source: santamariatimes/newspress/MJJF/eMJey