Hyundai faces lawsuit over alleged child labor violations at Alabama factory

The U.S. Department of Labor has filed a lawsuit against South Korean auto giant Hyundai Motor Co., an auto parts factory and a recruiting agency for alleged child labor violations. The shocking discovery of a 13-year-old girl working on an assembly line in Alabama has prompted a federal lawsuit aimed at combating and preventing such illegal employment practices.

Investigation reveals child labor at auto parts factory

An investigation by the Department of Labor found that a minor was employed to work long hours at the facilities of SMART Alabama, a Hyundai supplier, when she should have been in school. The child is said to have worked between 50 and 60 hours per week, raising serious concerns about child protection and compliance with labor laws.

Companies held responsible for child labor

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama, seeks to force the companies involved to forgo profits made from the use of child labor. Jessica Looman, administrator of the Labor Department's Wage and Hour Division, said such a situation in the United States is deeply troubling and unacceptable.

Despite Hyundai's statements affirming its commitment to U.S. labor laws and implementing corrective measures, the Labor Department insists companies cannot shirk responsibility by blaming labor suppliers .

Legal implications and industry precedent

This case poses a significant legal challenge because it is the first time the Department of Labor has sued a large company for violating the child labor law by a subcontractor. The outcome of this lawsuit could set a precedent affecting other companies in the automotive sector and beyond regarding their liability for the actions of subcontractors.

Hyundai responded to the allegations, affirming its respect for labor laws and detailing steps taken to resolve the issue. However, the company also expressed concerns that the Department of Labor's approach could set a worrying precedent for the industry.

The legal battle comes as the auto industry faces scrutiny over its labor practices and highlights the importance of corporate responsibility in supply chain management.