Several Dunkin Donuts franchises in Massachusetts were just cited and fined for violating the state’s child labor laws. Yes, it still happens and it cost the franchises hundreds of thousands of dollars. The laws protecting minors are straightforward, but the setting of a busy restaurant or workplace with minors can give rise to violations. With hiring for summer here, let’s review the most common laws that are violated:*
- Minors aged 16 and 17 cannot work for more than 9 hours a day, 6 days a week and 48 hours a week;
- Minors aged 14 and 15 cannot work after 7 pm during the school year and after 9 pm in the summer;
- Minors cannot work after 8 pm without an immediate adult supervisor;
- Failure to obtain work permits for all workers under 18;
- Failure to follow wage and hour laws that cover adult workers (meal breaks, overtime, etc).
To ensure against hazards, there are several prohibitions related to duties like operating machinery, ovens, meat slicers or serving alcoholic beverages that are worth reviewing too. Here is the required poster for MA Wage and Hour Laws, including laws for minors.
Questions? We can help! .Contact us.
*Massachusetts laws reviewed here–your state may have some variations.