DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) Teens aiming to dine at a bustling Chick-fil-A location in Ohio now require an adult supervisor, a new rule sparking some controversy.
The Chick-fil-A in Kettering announced the new measure on social media on Aug. 13, stating, “With the start of the school year, we want to ensure everyone is informed about our Teen Chaperone Policy.”
The restaurant added that the goal is “to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all guests.”
This policy mandates that guests aged 17 or younger must be accompanied by an individual over the age of 21 during their visit. If diners aged 17 or younger arrive without an adult chaperone, they may be asked to depart.
Chick-fil-A Kettering expressed, “We appreciate your patronage and wish to ensure Chick-fil-A Kettering offers a safe and enjoyable environment for all.”
The new policy isn’t going over well with everyone.
Some users voiced discontent, with one Facebook commenter remarking, “It’s unfortunate that well-behaved kids are penalized… perhaps instead of a chaperone policy, they could state they reserve the right to remove anyone disruptive from their property,” while other parents mentioned their 18- or 19-year-old children wouldn’t be able to bring siblings for a meal.
Another replied to the restaurant’s Facebook post, writing:
Another feedback came from a concerned 71-year-old, who noted, “Despite considering myself a devout Christian, I would revoke your franchise if it were in my hands without a heartfelt apology to all your patrons.”
Town & Country Kettering, the shopping mall behind the fast-food eatery, has had an updated teen chaperone policy since 2022.
