New measures enacted after child labor findings
The U.S. Department of Labor has successfully reached a settlement with Perdue Farms and Staff Management Solutions, following an investigation that uncovered child labor violations at Perdue’s Accomac, Virginia, poultry processing facility.
The violations, dating back to 2020, involved underage workers employed in hazardous roles, contravening the Fair Labor Standards Act. Perdue Farms, in agreement with the Department, will pay $4 million in restitution to the affected children and organizations combating child labor, alongside a $150,000 civil penalty.
Staff Management Solutions, co-responsible for the infractions, has consented to a separate judgment including a $125,000 civil penalty and a permanent injunction against future violations.
Wage and Hour Administrator Jessica Looman stated, “The department’s work uncovering a systemic disregard for the safety of children resulted in meaningful commitments to stop and prevent child labor exploitation.”
As part of the settlement, both Perdue and SMX will implement stringent compliance measures, such as hiring age restrictions, mandatory child labor training for employees, and the establishment of a compliance tip line.
For more details, visit www.dol.gov.