Minneapolis, 2 businesses settle over alleged labor violations

The city of Minneapolis and two area businesses have reached settlement agreements over alleged labor violations.

The city says its Labor Standards Enforcement Division learned that a former Blaze Pizza franchisee and HealthNorth provided employees subminimum wages and inadequate access to sick leave during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tuesday, the city said its Department of Civil Rights had reached settlements with the two businesses, getting $28,200 for the Blaze Pizza employees and $36,000 for the personal care assistants that they were owed.

The minimum wage in Minneapolis increased to $12.50 for everyone, and $14.25 for franchises and employers with more than 100 employees. Starting July 1, the minimum wage for large businesses will be $15, with that amount being enforced for small businesses in 2024. Minneapolis residents can report violations by calling 311 or filling out an online form.

Blaze Pizza issued the following statement regarding the settlement to 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS:

Blaze Pizza consists of more than 340 locations across 38 states and six countries, many of which are independently owned and operated by local franchisees. As independent franchisees, each local owner is solely responsible for setting the hourly pay and salaries of their employees, and complying with local minimum wage and sick leave ordinances. Blaze Pizza values our franchisees’ employees and expects every franchisee to prioritize fair compensation and the safety of their team members. We are pleased to hear of the settlement with the former franchisee and that current employees are now receiving fair compensation under the new ownership.

Blaze Pizza spokesperson

Editor’s Note: This article has been updated to reflect a statement issued by Blaze Pizza, which wasn’t available to 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS until Wednesday morning.