The Government Accountability Office reports that sweatshops _____.

The correct answer highlights a significant and ongoing issue associated with sweatshops: their tendency to employ undocumented workers and children. This situation often arises due to the vulnerable status of these individuals, who may lack legal protections and are more susceptible to exploitation.

Sweatshops typically operate in a way that prioritizes profit margins over ethical labor practices. They often circumvent labor laws and standards, including those set forth by organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This neglect can create dangerous working conditions and presents an environment where workers, including children and undocumented immigrants, may feel pressured to accept low wages and long hours due to their precarious legal or economic status.

The other options imply a lack of seriousness regarding the issue of sweatshops. The idea that sweatshops are no longer a problem minimizes the ongoing challenges surrounding labor exploitation. Similarly, the assertion that sweatshops follow OSHA guidelines contradicts the realities of many of these workplaces, where such regulations are frequently ignored. Therefore, the acknowledgment that sweatshops often employ vulnerable populations aligns with documented reports and studies addressing labor rights and ethical work environments.