In a recent federal investigation, a national food manufacturer faced severe penalties of $140,164 after the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) discovered the illegal employment of at least 11 children at its meatpacking and food processing facility in Minnesota. The company allowed nine of these minors to operate hazardous machinery, violating federal child labor laws.
11 Teens Illegally Employed at Food Manufacturer
The investigation, initiated by the DOL’s Wage and Hour Division in March 2023, uncovered that the food manufacturer employed five 17-year-olds, four 16-year-olds, and two 15-year-olds during the investigation period. The penalties serve as a stark reminder of the legal consequences businesses may face for violating child labor laws.
As part of the division’s broader initiative to combat child labor, the investigation resulted in the food manufacturer being prohibited from shipping snack foods like beef jerky, cheese, and sausage under the “hot goods” provision of the Fair Labor Standards Act. In addition, the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota entered a consent judgment and order on July 6, 2023. This order mandated the company not to violate child labor provisions and outlined specific steps for compliance, including nationwide audits conducted by a third-party consultant, the establishment of a toll-free anonymous reporting hotline for employees, and the identification and marking of hazardous equipment.
Principal Deputy Wage and Hour Administrator Jessica Looman emphasized the commitment of the DOL and the Biden-Harris administration to combat the troubling rise in child labor violations. She highlighted the legal responsibility of employers to recognize and address potential child labor violations, especially in cases involving the operation of dangerous equipment.
Key Takeaway
The resolution of this case sends a clear message that the DOL will not tolerate companies seeking to profit by illegally employing children. Solicitor of Labor Seema Nanda expressed the importance of combating child labor abuses, stating, “Child labor abuses are a stain on our nation, and we will continue to utilize every tool and legal strategy at our disposal to keep young people safe.”
The employment of children in hazardous occupations is unacceptable, and the DOL is taking decisive action to prevent such practices not only within the U.S. but also globally. The case against the food manufacturer serves as a precedent, signaling that companies engaging in illegal child labor practices will face legal consequences, including the prohibition of goods produced under the “hot goods” provision of the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Conclusion
Small and midsize business owners must be vigilant in ensuring compliance with child labor laws to avoid substantial penalties and legal actions. Prioritizing the safety and well-being of young workers is not just a moral obligation but a legal responsibility. By adhering to regulations and implementing proactive measures, businesses can contribute to a safe and ethical working environment, fostering a positive reputation and avoiding the detrimental consequences of child labor violations.