HARRISBURG, PA — In a decisive action, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) recently imposed a hefty $344,000 fine on NWPA Pizza Inc., the operator of seven Domino’s pizza outlets across Erie, Crawford, and Mercer counties. This penalty comes as a result of 715 breaches of the Pennsylvania Child Labor Act, spotlighting a significant lapse in protecting underage employees in the workforce.
L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker made the announcement, highlighting the state’s resolve to safeguard young workers. “Pennsylvania’s labor department stands firm in its dedication to uphold the rights of all workers, particularly our youngest who are most vulnerable to exploitation,” Walker stated. This move aligns with Governor Shapiro’s proposed budget for 2024-25, which seeks to enhance labor law enforcement through the addition of 12 investigators to the existing team of 27.
The cited violations began in 2021 and encompassed a range of infractions, including the failure to grant mandatory breaks to over 16 child employees. Specifically, the franchise was found guilty of not providing breaks on or before the fifth hour of work for 13 children, employing children without securing a proper work permit for 16 minors, and failing to notify school districts of employment changes within five days for 16 children. Furthermore, three instances were recorded where a child under 16 was employed without parental authorization, alongside numerous counts of excessive hours and illegal scheduling outside permitted working hours for minors.
The Pennsylvania Child Labor Act, rigorously enforced by L&I’s Bureau of Labor Law Compliance (BLLC), aims to protect the well-being of minors by setting clear boundaries around employment types, working hours, and conditions. It also mandates work permits for minors to ensure their focus remains primarily on education.
The investigation into NWPA Pizza Inc. was sparked by an employee complaint, leading BLLC to scrutinize all Domino’s locations operated by the company within the state. As part of the settlement, management teams at the implicated Domino’s franchises are now required to undergo training on compliance with the Pennsylvania Child Labor Act, provided by BLLC.
This case not only highlights the crucial role of state oversight in ensuring safe and legal working conditions for minors but also serves as a stern warning to other employers about the consequences of flouting labor laws. With the fines collected being deposited into Pennsylvania’s General Fund, the state demonstrates its commitment to reinvesting in the community and further strengthening its labor law enforcement framework.
As Pennsylvania moves forward with bolstering its labor law compliance capabilities, this incident underscores the importance of vigilance and accountability in protecting the rights and safety of the youngest members of the workforce.
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