PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A local Wendy's franchise owner has been fined hundreds of thousands of dollars for more than 760 child labor violations.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, GCWen Management must pay $300,000 for violations last year that took place at their 21 Wendy's locations across Bucks, Montgomery and Chester counties.
The department enforces the state's Child Labor Act which protects working kids by restricting hours of work, regulating work conditions, and requiring permits for certain positions. Officials say the most egregious infractions by GCWen include failing to provide breaks for more than 80 children and having dozens of children work excessive hours.
An investigation was opened following a tip about some children suffering minor injuries at the various Wendy's locations.
GCWen management at all of their Wendy's locations must also undergo training from the state's Bureau of Labor Law Compliance as part of the company's settlement agreement.