Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) recently introduced legislation directed against consolidation in the meat and poultry industries. He is especially concerned over the decision by Tyson Foods to close two plants in Dexter and Noel in his State of Missouri. Tyson has countered by offering to sell the plants, even to a competitor, as they undertake a restructuring program to enhance efficiency and profitability.
As an extension of his apparent antagonism towards Tyson Foods, he has addressed a letter to the company requesting information on child labor. At this time 
there is no evidence that Tyson Foods has engaged in any illegal activity. The letter included the comment “I’m alarmed by new reports that Tyson Foods has actively participated in dangerous and illegal child labor practices” This was apparently based on an article appearing in the February 28th edition of The New York Times. Senator Hawley has requested information on past child labor violations over a five year period, and documentation on internal controls to detect and prevent illegal employment.