The government has established child-labor laws to safeguard the rights of working children. These laws specify the types of work children can engage in and the working conditions they should be provided with. The Fair Labor Standards Act further regulates the payment and working hours of children, ensuring they are not exploited in the workplace.
A child-labor law is a regulation that safeguards the well-being of children by establishing guidelines for their working conditions. These regulations can be enacted at either the state or federal level. An illustration of a federal child-labor law is the Fair Labor Standards Act. Enacted in 1938, this federal law establishes regulations for minimum wages, overtime pay, and the employment of minors. Consequently, employers are required to pay their workers a specific amount of money and are prohibited from making them work excessive hours. The Fair Labor Standards Act also includes provisions regarding the minimum age at which individuals can work certain jobs. For instance, it stipulates that individuals under the age of 14 are generally prohibited from working in most occupations. Those who are 14 or 15 years old are permitted to work in specific jobs, but only for a limited number of hours per day and week. Additionally, individuals who are 16 or 17 years old can work more hours, but are still restricted from engaging in certain hazardous occupations. These examples demonstrate how the Fair Labor Standards Act safeguards children by establishing regulations for their working conditions. By implementing these regulations, children are less likely to be exploited by their employers and are able to work in a secure and equitable environment.
In most states, the legal age for a child to start working is 14, with some restrictions on the type of work and hours they can work.
Child labor laws restrict children from working in hazardous occupations or industries, such as mining, manufacturing, and construction.
Child labor laws typically prohibit children from working during school hours, with exceptions for certain types of work-study programs.
Child labor laws typically limit the number of hours a child can work, with stricter limits for younger children.
Child labor laws do apply to agricultural work, but there are some exemptions and special rules for children working on family farms.
Child labor laws have specific regulations for children working in entertainment or modeling, including requirements for work permits and restrictions on hours and conditions.
Employers who violate child labor laws can face fines and other penalties, and may be subject to legal action by the state labor department.
Child labor laws have specific rules for children working for family businesses, including exemptions for certain types of work and age restrictions.
Child labor laws allow children to work in restaurants and retail jobs, but with restrictions on the type of work and hours they can work.
If you believe a child is being subjected to illegal or unsafe working conditions, you can report the violation to the state labor department or the U.S. Department of Labor.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
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