Show-Me State Times

In a recent Senate Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) secured commitments from Department of Labor nominee Lori Chavez-DeRemer to prioritize American workers and address labor law violations by large corporations. During the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee session, Hawley emphasized the need for a pro-worker agenda under President Trump’s administration.

Senator Hawley highlighted concerns about Tyson Foods' actions in Missouri, where two major plants were closed, contracts with farmers were canceled, and thousands of workers lost their jobs. He pointed out investigations revealing illegal child labor in Tyson's supply chains. "Let me just give you an example of bad corporate behavior," said Hawley. He questioned Chavez-DeRemer on her stance regarding companies that exploit children while dismissing American workers.

Chavez-DeRemer assured her commitment to “protect, and not exploit” all workers and stated she would not tolerate child labor in the United States. She cited the Department of Labor’s enforcement capabilities as a tool to address these issues.

Hawley also criticized the Biden Administration for job growth trends favoring foreign over American workers. He expressed concern over illegal immigration impacting wages and benefits for American citizens. “During one month alone, the Biden Administration allowed 370,000 illegal immigrants to cross the border,” he noted.

Chavez-DeRemer reaffirmed that protecting American workers remains a top priority for President Trump.

Senator Hawley has been actively working on pro-labor legislation aimed at supporting American workers and holding corporations accountable for child labor practices. His efforts include questioning officials about missing migrant children vulnerable to trafficking and introducing legislation like the Corporate Responsibility for Child Labor Elimination Act.

Hawley's ongoing initiatives reflect his commitment to addressing labor abuses and advocating for stronger protections against unlawful child labor in corporate operations across the United States.