### Smithfield Packaged Meats Fined $2 Million for Child Labor Violations in Minnesota

In a significant legal resolution, Smithfield Packaged Meats Corp. has agreed to pay a $2 million fine to address accusations of child labor violations at its plant in St. James, Minnesota. This development follows an extensive investigation by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) covering the period from April 13, 2021, to April 13, 2023.

The DLI's probe revealed that Smithfield had allegedly employed at least 11 minors, aged 14 to 17, during the two-year timeframe. Alarmingly, three of these children reportedly began working at the facility at just 14 years of age. Nicole Blissenbach, the DLI Commissioner, condemned the employment of minors in hazardous late-night work conditions, highlighting the detrimental impact on their health, safety, and educational prospects. She emphasized that the substantial penalty underscores Minnesota's zero-tolerance policy for child labor violations.

Despite agreeing to the $2 million settlement, Smithfield maintains its stance against the allegations. In the consent order documents, the company denied any wrongdoing and claimed that the minors had used falsified identification to bypass E-Verify, the federal employment eligibility verification system. Smithfield reiterated its position in a statement, asserting that it did not knowingly hire anyone under the age of 18.

In addition to the financial penalty, the consent order mandates several measures to prevent future violations. Smithfield is required to engage in industry outreach regarding child labor laws, ensure compliance from its staffing agencies and sanitation contractors, and implement additional steps to safeguard against illegal child labor practices.

For further inquiries or to report a child labor complaint, individuals are encouraged to contact the DLI's Labor Standards Division.