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End Child Labor Violations at Wal-Mart

  • by: Purple Ocean
  • recipient: Gordon S. Heddell, Inspector General, Department of Labor
As the largest company in the world, Wal-Mart's corporate behavior affects all of us - as shareholders, workers, consumers, and members of communities that are home to Wal-Mart stores. But Wal-Mart's corporate behavior is often less than exemplary. This February, Wal-Mart received a sweetheart deal from the Department of Labor in response to 24 alleged violations of child labor laws in Wal-Mart stores from 1998-2002. This deal ensures that Wal-Mart will receive 15 days notice before the Labor Department investigates other alleged violations.

But more than four years ago an internal audit warned top executives at the company that employee records showed extensive violations of child labor laws! (read more)

Board Chair Rob Walton says he is proud of Wal-Mart's corporate governance record, and says that Wal-Mart "can and should expect to be held to a higher standard for many more years to come." But how does Wal-Mart's handling of these allegations, its own internal findings of child labor violations, and accepting a sweetheart deal with the government meet a higher standard?

The Inspector General of the Department of Labor has announced plans to investigate the DOL's deal with Wal-Mart. We need to let the Inspector General know that we want a thorough investigation into this brokered deal. Sign this petition to urge the Inspector General to rescind the DOL's 15 day advance notice guarantee, and to hold Wal-Mart accountable for compliance with child labor laws.

(What is Purple Ocean? Find out!)

read petition letter ▾
Dear Inspector General Heddell,

I am writing to express my concern over allegations that Wal-Mart has repeatedly violated child labor laws and the slap on the wrist Wal-Mart received from the Department of Labor. I urge you to conduct a thorough investigation of the deal, and to ensure that the Department of Labor holds Wal-Mart accountable for any proven child labor violations. [Your personal comments]

The Department of Labor granted Wal-Mart a sweetheart deal that includes 15 days advance notice before inspections or audits. The allegations that led to the Labor Department settlement concerned serious violations of child labor laws. Wal-Mart allegedly had child workers using dangerous equipment such as cardboard balers and chainsaws, both of which can result in serious injury.

I urge you to rescind the 15 day advance notice provision of the Department of Labor settlement. I also urge you to reopen the Department's investigation into these allegations to ensure that any child labor violations are thoroughly addressed and prevented in the future.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,
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