In February 2023, Wichitan Shannon Rebolledo, regional enforcement coordinator in the Labor Department’s Wage and Hour Division, was one of three leading investigators who discovered child labor violations that involved 102 children, ages 13 to 17. The children were performing sanitation work involving the operation of dangerous machinery at meat-packing facilities in eight states, including Kansas.
The shocking findings, which received international media attention – including coverage in the NY Times, Washington Post and a segment on CBS News’ 60 Minutes – prompted the launch of a national initiative to more effectively deal with exploitative child labor practices.
For their development of a broad investigative strategy to combat illegal child labor practices and obtain nationwide compliance in child labor laws, Rebolledo and her colleagues are finalists for a Service to America Medal, awarded annually by the nonpartisan, nonprofit Partnership for Public Service. Collectively known as the “Sammies,” the service awards honor excellence and innovation in federal service. Winners will be announced and recognized on Sept. 11.
Rebolledo, who holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in Spanish language and literature from Wichita State and completed post graduate studies in Spanish at Texas Tech, has worked for the Department of Labor for 19 years, starting in 2005 as a wage hour investigator.
Club Members, please visit the Member’s Area for more information.
