Labor Department Enforces Settlements Against Child Labor Violations

Recent investigations by the U.S. Labor Department have revealed ongoing child labor violations in the meatpacking industry, with companies like QSI, Perdue Farms, and JBS Foods facing penalties for employing underage workers in hazardous conditions. QSI was found to have employed 54 children across 13 plants and will pay a $400,000 penalty, while Perdue and JBS will pay a combined $8 million and implement reforms to prevent future violations. The investigations highlighted the dangers faced by young workers, particularly unaccompanied immigrant children, who have been found working overnight shifts in dangerous environments. These settlements are part of a broader effort by the Biden administration to address child labor in the industry, following a series of alarming reports and incidents, including a severe injury to a 13-year-old worker at a JBS plant. Labor officials emphasize the importance of accountability in supply chains and the need for creative solutions to combat illegal child labor practices. The situation remains a pressing concern, with over 4,000 violations reported in the past year alone.