Jon and Kate Plus 8 now under investigation

June 4, 1:21 PMLA On-The-Go Moms ExaminerAngela J. Lee

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                                                                         TLC photo

Jon and Kate Plus 8 have come a long way since it originally aired on Discovery Health Channel in 2007.  Since then, it became the most highly rated program on TLC and its fifth season premiere was watched by a record number of 9.8 million viewers.

Of course, such widespread popularity and fame didn't come for free- as both Jon and Kate Gosselin went under constant media scrutiny with numerous charges of affairs, lies, manipulations and even possibility for divorce.

Now there's more news. AP news has recently reported that Jon and Kate Gosselin are now under investigation by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor to see whether or not they are complying with child labor laws.

While TLC claims that it "fully complies" with state laws and regulations, The Pennsylvania Department of Labor claims they are looking into this show after receiving some complaints.

When considering the widespread popularity of this show, it is not difficult to imagine the overwhelming number of camera crews and staff who follow the 'Jon and Kate bunch' for every occasion and function, including kid's birthdays and family outings. Of course, underage performers have long been protected under child labor laws that regulate how many hours they are able to work, but as Maria Andreu questions in her recent article, is hanging around the camera and simply 'living their lives' considered work?

Personally, I find this to be a rather complicated and sensitive issue at hand. While I understand some people's concern over the 8 children 'working' for TLC by living out their daily lives in front of cameras without yet being able to fully consent to such responsibilities, I also understand why others argue this should be considered as 'living out their normal lives' rather than 'working' as child laborers.

The family reportedly makes $50,000 to $75,000 per episode, which really is A LOT of money for any average American family. Then add the number of sponsors for clothing, cars, toys, strollers, car seats, family trips and other products marketed to families with young children through this show and you now get----wow, countless reasons to be jealous of this family's sudden fame and fortune.

So are these charges simply an outcome of jealousy or legitimate concerns over the children's well-being? Personally, I can find reasons to justify both sides of the argument.

For those who are unfamiliar with the show, this TLC hit series follow Jon and Kate Gosselin and their 8 children, including 8-year old twin girls and 5-year old sextupulets as they embark on many exciting (and hectic) journeys as family.

You can find more information about the show here