The U.S. Department of Labor recently fined three McDonald’s franchisees after it was discovered that over 300 minors were working in violation of federal labor law. The investigation found that the franchisees had hired children as young as 14 years old to work past 7 pm and also during school hours, both violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Additionally, some workers under 18 were not given proper safety training or protective equipment when operating hazardous machinery, such as fryers and slicers, which is a requirement for all employees under FLSA regulations.
This case serves to highlight how important it is for employers to follow labor laws closely to protect their employees from exploitation and ensure they are paid fairly for their work. It also emphasizes the need for employers to be aware of any changes made by local or state governments regarding child labor laws so they can remain compliant with them at all times. Furthermore, this incident shows why businesses must take extra precautions when hiring minors since there are additional restrictions placed on them due to their age and inexperience in the workplace environment compared with adults who may have more job experience already established before starting employment at a new company or organization like McDonald’s franchises do here.
Read more at ABC News