Aug. 29 (UPI) — Chipotle Mexican Grill, a fast-food franchise, will pay over $300,000 to resolve allegations of violating child labor laws in Washington, D.C.
Attorney General Brian Schwalb of Washington, D.C., announced the $322,400 penalty and agreement on Monday. In addition to the payment, Chipotle will implement new policies to ensure compliance with D.C. labor laws. They will provide training to all restaurant managers and supervisors in the district and require store managers to review child labor laws with new hires.
“We applaud young people who take the initiative to work while attending school. However, there are limits to their working hours to ensure their well-being, rest, and ability to fulfill their responsibilities as students and to their families,” stated Schwalb in a statement.
The investigation into Chipotle began in May 2022 following complaints alleging violations of child labor laws. The reported violations included minors working after 10 p.m., working more than eight hours a day, working more than 48 hours a week, and working more than six consecutive days.
According to the attorney general’s office, over the past three years, there were more than 800 potential violations of child labor laws committed at Chipotle’s 20 D.C. restaurants.
The settlement document states that the company denies the allegations, and the agreement should not be seen as an admission of violating any law, liability, or wrongdoing.
Schwalb mentioned that a portion of Chipotle’s settlement agreement will contribute to D.C.’s youth apprenticeship grant. This grant aims to support local youth in existing apprenticeship programs and provide them with job training and workforce skills development.
“We will make good use of this settlement by connecting district youth with apprenticeships and workforce training opportunities. We are building on our efforts to ensure that all young people in the District have a chance to thrive and succeed,” he said.
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