Kids as young as 14 were found working at a Tennessee factory that makes lawn mower parts
Kids as young as 14 were found working at a Tennessee factory that makes lawn mower parts for John Deere and others NBC News
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Illegal Employment of Immigrant Children at Tennessee Firm
Source: NBC News
Introduction
Immigrant children as young as 14 were discovered working illegally at a Tennessee firm that manufactures parts for lawn mowers sold by John Deere and other companies. The Labor Department officials have taken action against the company, Tuff Torq, imposing fines of nearly $300,000 for employing 10 children. Additionally, Tuff Torq has been required to set aside $1.5 million to support the children who were illegally employed.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Goal 4: Quality Education
- Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
- Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Details of the Violations
Ryan Pott, the general counsel for Tuff Torq’s majority owner, Yanmar, acknowledged the violations. The Labor Department’s chief legal officer, Seema Nanda, stated that the department will not tolerate companies profiting from the illegal employment of children in dangerous occupations. Tuff Torq has agreed to disgorge profits, which will be used for the benefit of the children. This sends a clear message that putting children in harm’s way in the workplace is not only illegal but also comes with significant financial consequences.
Investigation Findings
The Labor Department did not specify the exact work the children were performing. However, Juan Coria, a Labor official, described the environment at Tuff Torq’s manufacturing plant as “astonishing.” Investigators witnessed children as young as 14 working late at night amid dangerous heavy equipment. Coria expressed concern for the safety and well-being of the children.
Response from Tuff Torq
Ryan Pott stated that the child workers were temporary and were not directly hired by Tuff Torq. They used fake names and false credentials to obtain jobs through a temporary staffing agency. Pott mentioned that Tuff Torq is transitioning away from doing business with the staffing company. He emphasized Tuff Torq’s commitment to ensuring ethical conditions and fair labor practices in their production processes.
Enforcement Actions and Expectations
As part of the consent agreement, Tuff Torq is required to hang signs at every entrance to the plant stating that individuals must be at least 18 years old to enter and work in the building. The Labor Department aims to send a message not only to the company but also to its community of suppliers and contractors. They expect all parties involved in the supply chain to adhere to ethical labor practices.
John Deere’s Response
John Deere did not provide a comment regarding the situation.
Investigation Details
The Labor Department initiated the investigation almost a year ago in spring 2023. Investigators visited the Tuff Torq facility multiple times. The exact trigger for the investigation has not been disclosed by officials.
Conclusion
The Labor Department’s prioritization of child labor enforcement reflects the significant increase in children found to be illegally employed since 2018. This case highlights the importance of upholding the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
-
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Target 8.7: Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labor, end modern slavery and human trafficking, and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labor.
- Indicator 8.7.1: Proportion and number of children aged 5-17 years engaged in child labor, by sex and age group (relevant to the issue of child labor in the article).
-
SDG 4: Quality Education
- Target 4.4: By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship.
- Indicator 4.4.1: Proportion of youth and adults with information and communications technology (ICT) skills, by type of skill (relevant to the issue of youth employment and skills development).
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | Target 8.7: Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labor, end modern slavery and human trafficking, and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labor. | Indicator 8.7.1: Proportion and number of children aged 5-17 years engaged in child labor, by sex and age group |
| SDG 4: Quality Education | Target 4.4: By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship. | Indicator 4.4.1: Proportion of youth and adults with information and communications technology (ICT) skills, by type of skill |
Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 4: Quality Education.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Based on the article’s content, the specific targets identified are:
- Target 8.7: Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labor, end modern slavery and human trafficking, and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labor.
- Target 4.4: By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
Yes, there are indicators mentioned in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:
- Indicator 8.7.1: Proportion and number of children aged 5-17 years engaged in child labor, by sex and age group (relevant to the issue of child labor in the article).
- Indicator 4.4.1: Proportion of youth and adults with information and communications technology (ICT) skills, by type of skill (relevant to the issue of youth employment and skills development).
These indicators can help track the progress in eradicating child labor and increasing the number of individuals with relevant skills for employment.
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: nbcnews.com
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