Dunkin franchisee to pay $145K over child labor violations at Central Mass. locations
Photo/Dunkin' Brands
A Dunkin franchise location in Westborough
The management company that owns 21 Dunkin locations across Central Massachsuetts has agreed to pay more than $145,000 for child labor violations at the locations, resolving more than 1,200 allegations, according to a Monday announcement by Attorney General Maura Healey.
Violations include failing to obtain a work permit for minor workers; failing to supervise minors past 8 p.m.; employing a 16 or 17 year old to work before 6 a.m. or after 10 p.m.; employing a minor under the age of 18 for more than nine hours in a single workday; and employing a minor under the age of 16 before 6:30 a.m. or after 7 p.m. and for more than eight hours in a single workday.
According to a press release from the Attorney General’s office, the Westford Groups’ Michael and Brian Marino were issued five citations for labor law violations at 14 of their group’s Dunkin stores in Worcester, Grafton, Millbury, Westborough, Leominster, and Lowell. The investigation began after a minor employee filed a complaint claiming they were required to work more than 10 hours per day. After an audit, the Attorney General’s Office found more than 1,200 violations for more than 50 employees over the period of 18 months.
“Companies that employ young workers have a responsibility to provide a safe and productive work environment,” Healey said in the Monday press release. “We are committed to protecting the rights of young workers in Massachusetts and ensuring that employers understand and comply with our labor laws.”
When reached for comment, the person who answered the phone at the Westford Group office in Concord said no one in the office could answer questions about the case and hung up. An email sent to the email address listed on the group’s website bounced back saying it was blocked. On the company’s website, Michael Marino is listed as senior vice president and general counsel while Brian Marino is listed as senior vice president of operations.
The company also manages Dunkin locations in Auburn, Spencer, and Salem, New Hampshire, according to its website.
Assistant Attorney General Kate Watkins and Investigator Lili Wu handled the case.
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