Calif. car washes tied to labor violations

LOS ANGELES, March 22 (UPI) -- A news report reveals an alleged "dark side" at some Southern California car washes allegedly violating labor laws by using immigrants paid only through tips.

The Los Angeles Times reported Saturday it conducted an investigation that showed several car washes typically violated labor and immigration regulations by having immigrants work for just tips or by altering their payroll books.

Former attorney Timothy Kolesnikow said these so-called carwasheros, individuals working only for tips, typically must pool their funds to survive day to day.

"Employers feel out the lowest amount these workers will take," Kolesnikow said. "People don't realize the human misery involved in getting their cars washed. There is a dark side to this."

A 2000 study of these carswasheros in Los Angeles County found 92 percent were not U.S. citizens and many are illegal immigrants.

The Times said government oversight into such dealings are improving, but the related fines given to businesses are low and workers rarely see any additional money as a matter of such legal actions.