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Activists, Assemblywoman Protest Over Domino's Pizza Labor Practices

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- New York State Assemblywoman Linda Rosenathal (D-Manhattan) joined activists Saturday in protesting what they called abusive labor practices of Domino's Pizza in New York City.

The group gathered outside the Domino's Pizza at 464 Third Ave. in the Kips Bay section of Manhattan.

Activists accused Domino's franchises of running "sweatshops," where workers were forced to work long hours and never even given time to eat, and where payroll records were falsified to "steal workers' wages."

"When workers stood up for their rights, instead of changing their ways, Domino's Pizza fired them. After three years, Domino's Pizza Corporation continues to refuse to take responsibility and right these wrongs," activists said in a news release.

At the Saturday protest, activists were expected to announce plans to form a "citywide student network against the sweatshop empire," as many students – according to activists – face similar conditions to Domino's Pizza workers as they deal with grim job prospects.

"The increasing number of students who are taking low-wage or unpaid internships or turning to retail and service jobs to pay back enormous student debt are joining forces with the Justice Will Be Served Campaign to improve working conditions," the activists said in a release.

Fast food workers at Domino's and other chains picketed earlier this month, demanding higher wages for their low-paying jobs. Some called for $15 per hour, rather than the current $8 per hour that some make after several years.

The current statewide average pay is $8.25 per hour.

The Domino's store where the protest was held declined to comment to 1010 WINS, and referred all questions to corporate headquarters.

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