Jersey Mikes Franchisee Violated Child Labor Regulations at Four Virginia Locations
Charleston, South Carolina-based JM Burke LLC faces more than $100,000 in fines.
- By Robert Yaniz Jr.
- Mar 21, 2024
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has fined JM Burke LLC—which operates four Jersey Mike’s franchises in Virginia—$108,161 in civil money penalties following investigations that uncovered multiple violations of federal child labor regulations.
According to a DOL release dated March 18, the DOL's Wage and Hour Division found the Charleston, South Carolina-based JM Burke allowed 14 minors to operate power-driven meat slicers and work hours beyond what is allowed for employees under age 16 at its Ashburn, South Riding, Springfield and Sterling, Virginia, locations.
These actions directly violate guidelines set by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
“Employers who hire minors are legally and ethically obligated to comply with child labor standards that protect young people from harm,” Wage and Hour Division District Director Nicholas Fiorello in Baltimore said in a statement. “In addition to keeping them safe, employers must schedule young workers for times that allow for their education to remain the priority.”
To prevent future violations, JM Burke LLC has committed to enhancing its compliance measures, including staff training, increased site visits, the development of a violation reporting website, and investments in technology to monitor store activities.
About the Author
Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.