'Sweatshops' in New York City

A Local Example of a Nationwide Problem Gao ID: HRD-89-101BR June 8, 1989

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the problem of sweatshops in New York City, focusing on: (1) the extent and nature of sweatshops in the apparel and restaurant industries; and (2) relevant federal, state, and local enforcement efforts.

GAO found that: (1) officials believed that sweatshops were a widespread problem in New York City's apparel industry and possibly its restaurant industry; (2) factors limiting enforcement efforts included insufficient staff resources, inadequate penalties for violations of federal labor statutes, and limited coordination between enforcement agencies; and (3) some federal, state, and local agencies have made efforts to establish closer working relationships through referrals and joint enforcement efforts.



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