The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development and the Wisconsin Department of Justice this week announced the recovery of $17,000 in penalty wages on behalf of 23 minor workers who were victimized by child labor violations.
The action stems from a 2024 audit determination, as well as an order against Iron Arch, a McDonald’s franchisee operating in Wisconsin, to pay $59,754 in additional civil forfeitures and surcharges.
The original complaint was lodged from an employee of the franchiser and the DWD’s Equal Rights Division investigated multiple violations of Wisconsin’s employment of minors law.
The investigation found that minors worked outside permitted hours of the day, exceeding the maximum daily hours permitted.
It also found minors working shifts of six or more hours without a 30-minute break.
“It’s always a good day when we’re able to right a wrong committed against Wisconsin workers – especially against our youngest workers who are more vulnerable to exploitation,” DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek said in a press release.
“Child labor laws provide important protections to ensure that kids who choose to work can stay safe in the workplace without sacrificing their schoolwork or time with family and friends.”
