Mayor Mamdani Wins $2M Restitution for 800+ Workers

Settlement reached with Dunkin' Donuts, Taco Bell, and Theory over violations of NYC's Fair Workweek Law

Mar. 25, 2026 at 9:40am

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Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Commissioner Sam Levine announced a $2 million settlement with Dunkin' Donuts, Taco Bell, and Theory that will provide restitution to more than 800 New York City workers whose rights under the city's Fair Workweek Law were violated. The settlement comes after workers filed complaints about not receiving proper notice of schedule changes and being forced to work "clopenings" without additional compensation.

Why it matters

New York City has some of the strongest protections for fast food and retail workers in the country when it comes to predictable scheduling and other workplace rights. This settlement demonstrates the city's commitment to enforcing these laws and ensuring workers are treated fairly, with their dignity respected. It also highlights how individual worker complaints can lead to major recoveries for hundreds of employees.

The details

The $2 million in restitution will be distributed to more than 800 workers across three enforcement actions. Two of the actions were settlements with Dunkin' Donuts and Taco Bell franchises as well as the retailer Theory, while the third is an ongoing lawsuit against a Dunkin' Donuts franchisee in Staten Island. The violations included failing to provide 14 days' notice of schedule changes for fast food workers and 72 hours' notice for retail workers, as required by the Fair Workweek Law. Workers also reported being forced to work "clopenings" - closing the store late at night and then reopening it early the next morning - without receiving the extra compensation they are entitled to under the law.

  • On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani

The mayor of New York City who announced the $2 million settlement and is committed to enforcing worker protections.

Sam Levine

The Commissioner of the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, which led the enforcement actions against the companies for violating the Fair Workweek Law.

Dunkin' Donuts

A fast food chain that was part of the settlement over Fair Workweek Law violations at some of its franchise locations.

Taco Bell

A fast food chain that was part of the settlement over Fair Workweek Law violations at some of its franchise locations.

Theory

A retail clothing company that was part of the settlement over Fair Workweek Law violations at some of its locations.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.