Published on Friday, February 15, 2007

Reports Suggest Lax Enforcement by NC Dept. of Labor

Investigation by Charlotte Observer raises many questions

State agency's operations and credibility placed under spotlight

(link to Charlotte Observer articles at www.charlotte.com)

Staff Report

An investigation by the Charlotte Observer has raised questions about the effectiveness and credibility of the North Carolina Department of Labor (DOL). The Charlotte Observer's articles have focused on the health and safety of workers at House of Raeford, a poultry operation with headquarters in Raeford. The reports have cast a spotlight on the state labor agency's priorities and operations.

The state labor agency's own website says "N.C. Department of Labor is charged with promoting the health, safety and general well-being of more than 4 million workers in the state." It also says, "Labor Commissioner Cherie Berry is now in her second term. The commissioner has broad regulatory and enforcement powers to carry out the department's duties and responsibilities." (link to agency's "about us" page at www.nclabor.com)

Commissioner Berry is a former state legislator. She served in the NC House of Representatives from 1993 to 2000, representing the state's 45th district which encompasses portions of Catawba, Gaston, and Lincoln counties. (link to Commissioner Berry's background at www.nclabor.com)