SALT LAKE CITY -- An Orem, Utah-based marketing company has been fined for child labor violations.
The U.S. Department of Labor says the $550,000 penalty against Western Wats is among the highest of its kind ever assessed.
The company disputes the fine and is appealing.
Western Wats was accused of employing 1,482 minors throughout Utah and six other states in violation of federal laws.
Investigators say the minors were as young as 13, but most of them were 14 and 15 years old.
They were found working company phone centers in Utah, Arizona, Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming. The Arizona call center is located in Casa Grande.
Officials say children under 14 can work unrestricted only in farm jobs. The rules for 14- and 15-year-olds limit their hours and job conditions.
Sixteen- and 17-year-olds can work in any non-hazardous jobs.
