Latest News About Child Labor Laws

When it comes to child labor, we know that in general, it’s illegal for anyone under 14 years old to take on an official job in the United States. Since its inception, the child labor laws of the Child Labor Act are revisited every year to make sure it stays current to further protect children.

With that being said, there are portions of the child protection laws that you don’t know about. If you have a child who wants to take on a job, or if you’re a business owner who’s handling a young adult who wants a position on (or is already working in) your company roster, you’ll want to make sure you’re following the law and keeping your child safe.

This article goes into detail about some of the updates that have been made to the child protection laws. Read on to make sure you stay informed.

Children Under 14 Can Work in Certain Situations

Though in most cases, those under 14 years of age aren’t allowed to work, there are some exceptions to the rule. For example, these children can work as actors, be employed to deliver newspapers, and even do some light babysitting and agricultural work, so long as the business is run by the parents and the job isn’t considered hazardous by the Department of Labor.

14 and 15 Year Olds Work Limited Hours

While in school, education is a priority for children. With that being said, 14 and 15-year-old children are only allowed to work limited hours so that the job doesn’t get in the way of their education. During the school year, they can only work a max of three hours per school day and 18 hours per week. On non-school days and during the summer, the child can work up to 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week.

Remember the Youth Minimum Wage

We know about the federal minimum wage officially offered to adult workers, but there is also a youth minimum wage that is applied to child workers. The federal law states that workers under the age of 20 can be paid a youth minimum wage of $4.25 for a 90-day period. After this period, these workers must receive the official federal minimum wage.

Check for Employment Papers

To protect the youth and to keep businesses in good standing, some states require workers under eighteen to obtain employment papers or Age Certificates to be legally able to work. Some schools offer these forms for the child to fill out, but they can also be obtained at the Department of Labor. Check to see if your state requires you to collect these forms from your potential employee before they start at the job.

Do you know of any job that’s exploiting your child or other children? You’ll want to make sure you’re taking legal action to the furthest extent that the law allows, and you need the best DUI attorney to do just that. You’ll be glad that you took the initiative!

Now You’re up to Date on Child Labor Laws

Now that you know about the latest in child labor laws, you’ll be able to better take care of today’s youth and tomorrow’s future. Check out the rest of our site to see what other information we have to offer so that you can stay safe and continue living your best life.