The US Department of Labor has secured a deal with JBS USA, the nation’s largest meat packing processor, to address child labor compliance nationwide. Under the agreement, JBS will provide $4 million to support individuals and communities affected by unlawful child labor practices.
Key elements of the agreement include:
– Creating a targeted advertising campaign to raise awareness about child labor practices
– Establishing a zero-tolerance policy for third-party contractors engaged in child labor
– Hiring a child labor compliance specialist to review policies, develop training materials, and conduct unannounced audits
The agreement also requires JBS to host or sponsor a symposium on preventing illegal child labor, maintain an ethics hotline, and require nationwide training on prevention of illegal child labor for all employees and third-party contractors.
JBS will prioritize its efforts in communities where child labor was previously discovered, including Alabama, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska. The funds may provide direct assistance to affected individuals and community organizations through scholarships, stipends, and educational aid.
This agreement marks a significant step forward in preventing child labor at meat packing facilities nationwide, with the company taking responsibility for ensuring children are not put in harm’s way.
Source: https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/whd/whd20250113