GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) -- The U.S. Department of Labor has discovered federal child labor violations at popular restaurant chains in nine states, including Wisconsin.

A franchisee owning many Wisconsin locations of Wendy's and Fazoli's is in trouble. It's accused of working 14 and 15-year-old kids outside of legally approved hours.

Following a federal investigation, Manna, Inc. -- the franchisee -- will have to pay more than $157,000 for violating child labor requirements.

"During the school year, in most cases, a young person under age 16 is limited to only three hours of day, because they have to go to school," said Jim Golembeski, executive director of Bay Area Workforce Development. "You want to keep your restaurant open. I get that. You still have to follow the rules."

The company did not immediately respond to requests for comment.