(Madelia, MN)- A southern Minnesota meat processing plant will pay a $300,000 penalty for violating state child labor regulations. The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry announced the fine against Tony Downs Food Company in Madelia late last week. An investigation found the company employed at least eight children between 14 and 17-years-old to operate meat processing equipment. State law bars young people from operating hazardous equipment like the meat grinders used at the plant. The company has agreed to hire a third party to bring its operation into compliance with state law.