DHS officials, meanwhile, maintain that because their investigation into this matter remains underway, they are not at liberty to publicly comment. Later, the officials stated those with further questions can reach out to the US Labor Department.
Last month, a probe by the Labor Department revealed the children were working for PSSI and JBS Foods, both in Nebraska and Minnesota.
Meanwhile, federal authorities explain that in employing these minors, PSSI breached labor laws that protect children from the following:
- Labor deemed to be “oppressive” for minors
- Exposure to employment determined to be hazardous
At least some of the children doing work for PSSI suffered from chemical burns and a lack of sleep. The latter is due to the children going to school during the day time and then working during night hours.
A PSSI spokesperson claimed the company has zero contact with DHS and remains unaware of any probe. Likewise, this spokesperson alleges that PSSI employs “rigorous steps” to abide by the law.
