MURFREESBORO - HWY 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries, which opened its Murfreesboro location on September 17th, is now permanently closed after around three months of operation. A Google search of the restaurant’s address lists the location as permanently shut. The HWY 55 website also no longer lists the Murfreesboro location on Highway 96/Franklin Road.

The abrupt closure comes amid scrutiny over the restaurant’s labor practices. Several parents reported that their children, employed at the location, were required to clock in and out based on the pace of business, yet were not allowed to leave the premises. This practice, while not uncommon in the restaurant industry, raised concerns about fairness to employees. In response to those concerns, HWY 55 officials announced the Murfreesboro location had undergone a "change in leadership."

It's important to note that the Tennessee Department of Labor found no violations of state labor laws. The reports, however, have lead some state lawmakers to consider revisiting regulations governing employment practices in the food service industry.

The closure leaves questions about HWY 55’s future presence in Murfreesboro.