How young is too young to work long hours?
That is a subjective question that has come into the spotlight due to a recent action taken in the Florida Senate.
In a move that may reignite debates over child labor laws, Florida lawmakers are advancing a bill, SB 918, that would loosen restrictions on teen work hours in the state. Last year, the state passed a law allowing parents, guardians or school superintendents to waive the 30-hour work week limit for 16- and 17-year-olds during the school year. This new proposal would allow 16- and 17-year-olds to work more than eight hours on school nights and over 30 hours a week during the school year, without mandated breaks. For 14- and 15-year-olds who are homeschooled, attend virtual school or have graduated high school, the bill would also remove restrictions on overnight work.
Supporters of the bill, led by state Rep. Jay Collins, R-Tampa, argue that it aligns Florida’s labor laws with federal standards and empowers parents to make decisions for their children. Critics, however, warn of potential exploitation, sleep deprivation, and academic decline for young workers, endangering their health, education and mental well-being—particularly as mental health statistics for 14- to 17-year-olds show a rise in depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.
Labor Restrictions are a Balancing Act
Is it possible to balance between parental rights, economic opportunity and the potential risks to young workers’ well-being? It’s tough to draw the line.
Florida laws governing children’s work hours have changed numerous times since they were first enacted in 1913. The last dramatic change was in 1986, extending the curfew and ban on working more than six days in a row to those aged 17 and younger.
One senator, Carlos Guillermo Smith, D-Orlando, suggested the bill is being introduced to address labor shortages caused by Florida’s crackdown on illegal immigration. While Senator Tracie Davis, D-Jacksonville, highlighted the potential for sleep deprivation, academic decline and increased pressure on students to support their families financially.
Globally, Child Labor Is Widespread
Today, 218 million children work across the globe. Of these, 70% are in activities classified as child labor, under local laws. Child labor is often viewed as a rights issue; it is also an economic issue. Historically, child labor laws have been implemented to protect young workers from unsafe conditions and excessive hours, ensuring their education and well-being are not compromised.
In America, illegal child labor has been on the rise. Between October 2022 and July 2023, the Department of Labor concluded 765 child labor cases, finding 4,474 children employed in violation of federal child labor laws. This resulted in more than $6.6 million in penalties against employers. That represents a 44% increase in the number of children illegally employed and an 87% increase in penalties compared to the same period the year before, according to the Labor Department.
Looking Ahead
The debate over SB 918 underscores the delicate balance between economic opportunity and worker protections. As Florida moves forward with this legislation, it is crucial to consider the long-term implications for the state’s youngest workers and the broader societal values at stake. History has shown that child labor laws are not just about regulating work hours—they are about safeguarding the future of our youth. And as the pendulum swings toward deregulation, Florida must ensure that it protects the well-being of its youngest workers.
One large question remains: Will this legislation empower teens and families, or will it open the door to exploitation and harm? Florida’s lawmakers must weigh the economic benefits against the potential costs to the state’s future generation.
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