Ending teen work permits could impact ability to investigate child labor violations, DWD warns

Republican Lawmakers Consider Eliminating Work Permits for Young Employees in Wisconsin

Republican lawmakers in Wisconsin are exploring the possibility of completely eliminating work permits for the state’s youngest employees. They argue that this move would reduce bureaucratic paperwork for employers, teenagers, and parents.

However, the state Department of Workforce Development (DWD) has warned that the loss of application fees would limit their ability to inform employers about child labor laws, enforce regulations, and investigate violations.

The Bill and Its Supporters

The bill, currently supported by 18 Republicans, aims to remove the requirement for 14- and 15-year-olds to obtain a work permit from the state. It is worth noting that work permits are no longer necessary for 16- and 17-year-olds following a change in state law in 2017.

The authors of the bill argue that work permits slow down the hiring process as employers struggle to find workers. They emphasize that the bill does not change other regulations, such as the maximum hours and time of day young employees can work, and the prohibition of hazardous fields like mining.

Support and Opposition

Supporters of the bill, such as Rep. Clint Moses, R-Menomonie, believe that it would eliminate unnecessary government red tape and bureaucracy. They argue that if a teenager wants a job, they should be able to apply and start working without unnecessary barriers. However, opponents, including Stephanie Bloomingdale, the president of Wisconsin’s AFL-CIO, argue that work permits protect young employees from exploitation and ensure parental approval of their child’s employment.

Impact on Child Labor Enforcement

The bill’s elimination of work permits would result in a loss of application fees. These fees currently support a full-time staff member at DWD who monitors compliance, investigates labor law violations, and provides education and outreach to employers. Without funding to cover the department’s increased costs, DWD warns that their ability to inform employers about child labor laws and reduce violations would be significantly impacted.

Governor’s Stance

Governor Tony Evers, a Democrat, has previously vetoed bills that aimed to loosen regulations for teen workers. If this bill reaches his desk, it is likely that he will veto it as well. Last year, Evers rejected a proposal to expand the hours that 14- and 15-year-olds are allowed to work.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

   • Target 8.7: Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labor, end modern slavery and human trafficking, and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labor.
   • Indicator 8.7.1: Proportion and number of children aged 5-17 years engaged in child labor, by sex and age group (relevant to child labor laws and enforcement).

2. SDG 4: Quality Education

   • Target 4.4: By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship.
   • Indicator 4.4.1: Proportion of youth and adults with information and communications technology (ICT) skills, by type of skill (relevant to youth employment and skills development).

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

   The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 4: Quality Education.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

   • Under SDG 8, the specific target is Target 8.7: Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labor, end modern slavery and human trafficking, and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labor.
   • Under SDG 4, the specific target is Target 4.4: By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

   Yes, there are indicators mentioned in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

   • Indicator 8.7.1: Proportion and number of children aged 5-17 years engaged in child labor, by sex and age group (relevant to child labor laws and enforcement).
   • Indicator 4.4.1: Proportion of youth and adults with information and communications technology (ICT) skills, by type of skill (relevant to youth employment and skills development).

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: jsonline.com

Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.