LOS ANGELES, Dec. 21, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The California Labor Commissioner's office recently distributed coats and other clothing worth more than $14,000 to the Shelter Partnership, Inc., operator of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Shelter Resource Bank, putting to charitable use garments confiscated during enforcement sweeps of garment manufacturers operating illegally in Los Angeles and surrounding counties.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121221/DC33566)

"It is especially gratifying during the holiday season to be able to donate these clothes to individuals and families who really need them," said California Labor Commissioner Julie A. Su. "These are brand new clothes that we confiscated from garment factories that were operating in violation of labor laws. By removing such garments, we attack underground economy abuses by making it costly to break the law, protect the honest employers in the industry who work so hard to comply, and as an unintended benefit, are able to provide warm coats and other items to those in our community who otherwise wouldn't have them. It's a win-win for all." 

Over the last year, enforcement conducted by the Labor Commissioner's office and the department's Labor Enforcement Task Force in the garment industry resulted in the confiscation of women's and children's clothing. The confiscations were from businesses that violated California labor laws that require proper registration with the State.

The clothing will be distributed to the 200 homeless and domestic violence shelters that are served by the Shelter Partnership, Inc. The partnership also provides donations to the LA Family Housing shelter through their Shelter Resource Bank.

"We are delighted to have this wonderful partnership with the California Labor Commissioner, resulting in these confiscated goods being made available to our community's homeless individuals and families," said Ruth Schwartz, executive director of Shelter Partnership, Inc. "Since its founding in 1985, Shelter Partnership has been a leader in the fight against homelessness in Los Angeles County. The Partnership looks forward to future collaborations with the Labor Commissioner's office in providing supportive services for the homeless, and ensuring that these items are delivered to the people and agencies that need them most."

Under the law, the confiscated clothing items are required to be placed in storage and after 45 days to be disposed of or destroyed. These items, however, may be donated to nonprofit organizations provided that the organizations agree the items will not be resold. Last year, the Labor Commissioner donated clothing to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Alameda County's Oakland Community Center.

The Labor Commissioner's office adjudicates wage claims, investigates discrimination and public works complaints, and enforces state labor law and Industrial Welfare Commission wage orders. To learn more about the functions of the California Labor Commissioner, visit our website.

CONTACT:
Erika Monterroza
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(510) 286-1161

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SOURCE California Labor Commissioner