Bill weakening Florida’s child labor laws advances in state legislature
Bill weakening Florida's child labor laws advances in state legislature WPTV News Channel 5 West Palm
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A Bill Weakening Florida’s Child Labor Laws Advances in State Legislature
The House Regulatory Reform & Economic Development Subcommittee in Florida has approved a bill that weakens the state’s child labor laws, clearing its first committee. The policy eliminates curfew restrictions for some teens and allows them to work longer hours.
Supporters of the Bill
The bill, known as HB 49, has received support from its backers who believe it will provide more opportunities for teenagers to gain work experience. Logan Schulenberger, a 16-year-old martial arts instructor, expressed his desire for the freedom to work longer with fewer restrictions.
- Logan believes that having more work experience will increase his chances of being hired in the future.
- He emphasizes the importance of teenagers knowing their limitations when it comes to working.
Key Changes Proposed by the Bill
The bill specifically removes curfew constraints on 16- and 17-year-olds, allowing them to work before 6:30 a.m. and after 11 p.m. It also permits them to work more than 30 hours a week, including on days before class. However, the mandated 30-minute breaks following four hours of continuous work would still apply to those aged 15 and younger. The bill aims to align Florida’s child labor laws with federal law and those of 24 other states.
Reasons for Pushing the Policy
Representative Linda Chaney, who filed the bill, listed several reasons for pushing the policy:
- It would help strengthen Florida’s workforce.
- It would maintain hazardous work restrictions.
- It would provide opportunities for kids who want to work.
Opposition to the Bill
There are concerns about the impact of the bill on education and the potential exploitation of teen workers. Christopher Tingle, an 18-year-old living in Tallahassee, expressed his opposition, highlighting the negative effects on minors attending high school.
- Tingle questions how minors working late hours will be able to function effectively in school.
The Florida Policy Institute (FPI), a nonpartisan organization, condemned the approval of the bill. FPI CEO Sadaf Knight expressed concern that the bill would undo crucial provisions of Florida’s child labor laws and called for greater protections for all workers.
Efforts to Amend the Bill
Democrats attempted to water down the proposed changes but lacked the necessary votes. They argued that approving the bill would have a negative impact on children.
- Representative Joe Casello highlighted the recent law to start the school day later, emphasizing the need for teenagers to get more sleep.
- Representative Anna Eskamani questioned why teenagers are being treated as youth workers instead of being allowed to enjoy their childhood.
Future of the Bill
Although HB 49 still has a long way to go before reaching the governor’s desk, momentum suggests it will continue to move forward when lawmakers convene next month. However, the bill currently lacks a companion bill in the Senate, and Senate President Kathleen Passidomo has expressed uncertainty about its prospects.
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