for some americans, these kinds of low paid service jobs is all they can do, all that's available. so if all companies engage in these practices, where are they supposed to go?
tell us, what do you do for a living?
While I don't agree with forcing workers to work off the clock, if the people are THAT bothered by it, then they will upgrade their skills.
When I was working in fast food in high school, I had to do all kinds of prep before opening. I was a good worker, but no matter what the heck I did, I was never ready on time. I begged to be able to come in early, off the clock! They wouldn't let me.