Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and state lawmakers have just approved big rollbacks to child labor laws that will dramatically impact teens aged 16 and older. Here’s a look at what these new laws involve and what they mean for Florida’s youth workforce.
The Legislative Breakdown
The Florida Legislature passed two separate bills during the 2024 session, both targeting the state’s child labor laws. House Bill 49 and House Bill 917, while different in scope, collectively loosened restrictions for older teens.
A Statewide Debate
These controversial changes, set to take effect on July 1, 2024, have sparked heated debates across the state.
House Bill 49
House Bill 49 passed largely along party lines. This bill focuses on extending the number of hours that 16- and 17-year-olds can work.
House Bill 917
House Bill 917 received bipartisan support. This bill is broader and includes provisions for minors working on construction sites.
Key Provisions of the New Laws
Increased Work Hours: 16- and 17-year-olds who are home-schooled or in virtual school programs can now work more than 30 hours per week during the school year, breaking the previous cap. Parental and Superintendent Permission: Other teens can also exceed the 30-hour limit if they get a signed note from a parent or school superintendent.
Longer Shifts, Fewer Breaks
Extended Daily Hours: Teens can work more than eight hours on holidays or Sundays, even if they have school the next day. No Rest Day Requirement: The new law allows teens to work more than six days in a row.
House Bill 917: Construction Work for Teens
Construction Site Work: Minors aged 16 and 17 can now work on residential construction sites – as long as they’re not climbing roofs or scaffolding over six feet.
Teen Safety First
Safety Certifications: These teens must complete a 10-hour OSHA safety training course.
Adult Supervision Required
Supervision Requirements: They must be supervised by an adult aged 21 or older with at least two years of relevant experience.
How Voices Changed the Bills
Initially, the bills proposed even more relaxed regulations. Early versions would have allowed teens to work on roofs and overnight shifts, but these ideas were removed following public outcry.
Flexibility or Exploitation?
Supporters claim these changes give teens “freedom” and “flexibility” to work more, helping them support their families and gain independence.
Freedom vs. Safety
Lobbyist Samantha Padgett from the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association argued that current restrictions are too harsh and scare off employers.
Critics Cry Foul
But opponents are sounding the alarm. Critics, including teachers, trade workers, and child advocacy groups, warn that these laws put teens at greater risk of injury and exploitation.
Advocacy Groups Sound the Alarm
Moms Rising, a parent advocacy group, is furious, saying these rollbacks endanger young workers and could lead to serious harm.
Regulation Woes
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation is supposed to enforce these laws.
Can Florida Enforce the Laws?
But with only seven staff members covering the entire state, critics are wondering just how effective this enforcement will be. Last year, out of 257 complaints, only five resulted in action.
Misdemeanor or Federal Offense?
Violations of Florida’s new child labor laws are now second-degree misdemeanors, punishable by fines up to $2,500 per offense. But under federal law, penalties are much harsher: up to $15,138 for each minor involved in a violation, and up to $68,801 for violations causing death or serious injury.
A Broader Trend
Florida isn’t the only state rolling back child labor protections. Since 2021, 31 states have introduced bills to weaken child labor protections, with 14 states, including Florida, passing them.
The Power Behind the Changes
The Foundation for Government Accountability, a Florida-based think tank, has been heavily involved in pushing these changes nationwide.
Looking Ahead
As these new laws take effect, Florida’s teens face a new reality. Will they benefit from greater work opportunities, or will they suffer from increased exploitation and risk? Only time will tell.
Budget Boss: 12 Tips for Managing Your Money Wisely
Embarking on a journey to master budgeting requires evidence-based strategies supported by research to manage your finances effectively and achieve your financial goals. Here are 12 research-backed tips, along with actionable steps to implement them, for mastering budgeting and maximizing your financial well-being. Budget Boss: 12 Tips for Managing Your Money Wisely
Ranking the Top and Bottom 24 U.S. Universities
Wondering which universities are the cream of the crop and which ones fall short of the mark? Today, we’re ranking the 24 best and worst universities in the United States to give you the inside scoop on higher education excellence and disappointment. Are you ready to uncover the highs and lows of academia? Ranking the Top and Bottom 24 U.S. Universities
18 Trending Jobs That Let You Travel While Working
Dreaming of turning your wanderlust into a way of life? Believe it or not, there are careers that not only allow but encourage you to explore the globe, dive into new cultures, and collect experiences instead of things. Here are 18 unconventional jobs that offer just that, with a bit more insight into each. 18 Trending Jobs That Let You Travel While Working
The post Florida’s Legal Shake-up: Teen Workers Feel the Heat first appeared on Not Your Boss Babe.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jacob Lund.
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional financial advice.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
Leave a Reply