University of Iowa President Mary Sue Coleman has o-kayed guidelines for Hawkeye apparel makers, rules designed to prevent the exploitation of workers. U-of-I Management Professor Lon Moeller led the committee that drafted the “Code of Conduct”. Moeller says the code sets out strict guidelines for the working conditions manufacturers must provide.A group known as “Students Against Sweatshops” pushed the University to make changes. Moeller says that pressure, and time contraints, made developing the code a difficult task. He says the toughest task is now in the hands of those who have to make sure manufacturers are following the code.Under the code, University-sanctioned clothing must have been made by workers earning at least the minimum wage — and in factories where child labor is banned. Manufacturers have six months to abide by the new code after being notified by the University.
Iowa's Radio News Network
