05/17/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/17/2022 16:04
In Idaho and Oregon, three recent investigations of grocery store operators by the U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Divisionled to assessments of more than $240,000 in civil money penalties and the recovery of $114,382 in overtime back wages and liquidated damages for 266 workers. Most penalties were related to child labor violations.
"Summer and seasonal work offers young people a unique opportunity to get valuable workplace experience while earning money, but it should never come at the expense of their education or safety," said Acting Wage and Hour Administrator Jessica Looman. "Employers who hire youth-aged workers are obligated to comply with federal child labor laws to ensure the experience is safe and beneficial for workers."
Specifically, the findings of the investigations of the three employers were as follows:
In addition to the back overtime wages and assessed penalties, the three employers agreed to implement enhanced measures to ensure future compliance with child labor regulations at all their locations.
"These investigations reinforce the importance of increased compliance with federal child labor laws," said Wage and Hour Division District Director Carrie Aguilar in Portland. "Employers are encouraged to use the many tools offered by the U.S. Department of Labor to understand their obligations and contact the Wage and Hour Division with questions or for clarification to avoid violations and costly penalties."
From fiscal year 2017-2021, the department identified child labor violations in more than 4,000 cases, finding more than 13,000 minor-aged workers employed in violation. For more information about young workers' rightsand other laws enforced by the division, contact its toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243). Learn more about the Wage and Hour Division, including a search toolto use if you think you may be owed back wages collected by the division.