Massachusetts AG Fines Chipotle for Thousands of Child Labor Violations | Eater

"Facing accusations of widespread child labor and wage-and-hour violations, the national restaurant chain was fined $1.37 million after state investigators found approximately 13,253 child labor violations along with other infractions. The probe began when the parent of a 16-year-old reported the minor had worked past midnight; a records review uncovered numerous instances of minors working too late, exceeding permitted hours, and working without required permits, and found the company did not consistently inform workers of their rights. Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey stressed the chain’s duty to ensure minors are safe and said the citations should warn other restaurants. The chain has also been under broader scrutiny as workers organize over working conditions, and reporting for The New Republic described the workplace as marked by “manic stress” and a lack of basic dignity and respect. As part of the settlement, the company agreed to direct $500,000 of the fine to a fund for educating young people about child labor laws and workforce development." - Jaya Saxena