Owner & Operator of McDonald’s Restaurants in Idaho Violates Child Labor Laws

The McDonald’s Franchisee of Idaho is facing penalties after violating child labor laws in 11 different restaurants throughout Boise, Meridian, and Nampa.

After an investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division, it was found that 14- and 15-years-old employees had been working more than 3 hours on school days with shifts extending past 7 p.m. The teens were also working more than 8 hours per day on non-school days with shifts extending past 9 p.m. This has been ongoing since June 1 through Labor Day. Another violation was crossed as the 14- and 15-year-old workers were also allowed under their employer to operate manual fryer baskets. In addition, FLSA record-keeping requirements were violated when the employer failed to maintain accurate proof of age of one minor employee.

Darmody Enterprises L.T.D., the owner and operator of McDonald’s restaurants in Idaho, has paid $50,000 in civil money penalties for violating these child labor requirements.

“Child labor laws exist to strike a balance between providing a meaningful work experience for young people and keeping them safe on the job so that the work does not jeopardize their health and well-being or educational opportunities,” Wage and Hour Division District Director, Thomas Silva said in a news release. “Employers should evaluate their employment practices to ensure that they comply, and avoid violations like those found in this case. We invite all employers to contact the Wage and Hour Division for compliance assistance and with any questions they may have.”