DES MOINES, IOWA (AP) -- A House committee has unanimously approved a measure toughening penalties for businesses that violate child labor laws or don't pay wages promised to workers.
The proposals were sparked by alleged practices at Agriprocessors, a kosher slaughterhouse in Postville where federal agents arrested 389 workers in an immigration raid last May. Since the raid, company officials have faced state and federal charges including allegations that they improperly employed children and
violated wage laws.
Cedar Rapids Rep. Todd Taylor says the measure is designed to punish businesses that violate the most basic standards of behavior.
The measure would increase fines and open businesses to civil liability for violating labor laws.
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