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GCWen Management, which operates 21 Wendy's locations across Bucks, Chester, and Montgomery counties, was cited for 766 violations of the Pennsylvania Child Labor Act in 2023, officials said.
According to L&I, GCWen failed to provide lawfully required breaks to more than 80 minors on the payroll.
The franchisee also violated the number of hours that children can legally work, employed people under 16 without the required parental authorization, and employed children who didn't have work permits, the department said.
The Child Labor Act allows for up to $5,000 for each violation, regulators said.
"L&I is dedicated to championing the rights of workers through enforcement of Pennsylvania's labor laws. This commitment extends to vigorously protecting our children from unlawful employment practices," said department Secretary Nancy Walker.
"Remember, they are not just workers -- they're our kids -- and their safety and rights are paramount. No company should ever put profit over the wellbeing of Pennsylvania's youth."
As part of the settlement, GCWen management will have to undergo compliance training, L&I added.
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