TastingTable: Why a Dairy Queen Franchisee Got Slapped With a Sizable Fine

According to a U.S. Department of Labor press release, Dairy Queen franchisee, Indiana-based H&H Coldwater LCC, has agreed to pay the DOL a $42,572 fine for child labor violations.

H&H Coldwater LCC operates 11 franchised DQ stores in Indiana and Michigan. The U.S. DOL found 102 minors, aged 14 and 15, working in violation of “wage and hour” child labor regulations in several of its franchise locations.

“Franchisees like H&H Coldwater provide teen workers an opportunity to learn customer services and other skills that prepare them for successful careers. But as employers, they have an obligation to ensure child labor laws are followed,” said Wage and Hour Division District Director Patricia Lewis. “Child labor laws protect teens’ health and ensure their first job experiences are positive and manageable with schooling and other commitments.”

Under the law referenced in the DOL’s press release, minors must not work more than eight hours per day — three hours on school days. Employers are required to limit a minor’s working hours to 40 hours per week — or 18 hours during the school year. Further, 14 and 15-year-old workers must not work from 7 P.M. to 7 A.M.