The U.S. Department of Labor fined a Silicon Valley specialty food delivery service for using dozens of minors as drivers, a position that is illegal under federal child labor laws.
Organic on the Go Inc. of Cupertino, Calif., which provides customers with foods from well-known restaurants, bakeries, cafes and other California providers, has been fined $139,398, according to a Sept. 28 news release.
“Employers who hire young workers must know and abide by federal laws that govern their employment,” Wage and Hour District Director Susana Blanco said in the release. "These obligations include ensuring minors are not employed in occupations that risk their safety, health and well-being."
The safety and health of 78 teens as young as 16 years old were put at risk when the business, operating as Locale in Cupertino, hired them as delivery drivers in violation of Fair Labor Standards Act provisions, the release reported. Locale also deprived workers of their rights for minimum wage and overtime protections by classifying them as independent contractors.
Blanco said limits exist on what jobs employers can have young workers perform, the release reported. Minors are prohibited form driving motor vehicles as part of their employment by child labor, including making deliveries.
Employers are urged to review the Labor Department’s YouthRules! initiative materials and Seven Child Labor Best Practices for Employers website, Blanco said in the release. They also may direct questions to the Wage and Hour Division to keep minor-aged workers safe.
