New bill would strengthen child labor laws in Illinois
Illinois child labor laws could be strengthened under new legislation The State Journal-Register
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Illinois Bill Strengthens Child Labor Laws
A new bill has been introduced in Illinois to strengthen child labor laws, with a focus on providing more protections and provisions for individuals aged 16 and under.
Senate Bill 3646
Senate Bill 3646, filed by Sen. Robert Peters, D-Chicago, aims to establish limitations on the hours minors can work. The proposed restrictions include not working more than 8 hours in a single 24-hour period, not working more than 3 hours per day, and not exceeding a total of 8 hours of work and school hours on days when school is in session. This bill aims to ensure the well-being of young individuals and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, which promotes decent work and economic growth.
Protection for Children
The bill also includes provisions to protect children aged 13 and under by prohibiting them from obtaining a working permit. This measure aims to safeguard the rights and development of younger children, in line with SDG 4, which focuses on quality education for all.
Furthermore, the proposed legislation emphasizes the need to protect children who are featured in online content. It mandates that these children receive compensation for any appearances made in online content. This provision aligns with SDG 16, which promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Advocating for Children’s Well-being
During a recent news conference, Sen. Robert Peters emphasized the importance of prioritizing children’s well-being and ensuring their dignity and respect in employment. He stated, “We have to lay down rules that put our children’s well-being first, ensuring that there are no loopholes for them to be treated with anything less than the dignity and respect they deserve.” This commitment to protecting children aligns with SDG 1, which aims to end poverty in all its forms everywhere.
Comparison to Surrounding States
The introduction of this bill comes at a time when neighboring states have been weakening their child labor laws. Wisconsin recently proposed a bill that would eliminate the requirement for work permits for minors aged 14 and 15. Kentucky passed a bill increasing work hours for 14- and 15-year-olds during school days. Iowa introduced an extreme bill that aimed to lift restrictions on hazardous work for minors as young as 14. These actions contradict federal standards put in place to protect minors and highlight the importance of Illinois’ efforts to strengthen child labor laws.
Next Steps
Senate Bill 3646 is currently awaiting consideration by the full Senate. If passed, it will contribute to the achievement of several SDGs, including SDG 8, SDG 4, SDG 16, and SDG 1.
Contact Hope Gadson: hgadson@gannett.com
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| SDG 4: Quality Education | Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes | Indicator 4.1.1: Proportion of children and young people (a) in grades 2/3; (b) at the end of primary; and (c) at the end of lower secondary achieving at least a minimum proficiency level in (i) reading and (ii) mathematics, by sex |
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
The article addresses child labor laws, which are directly related to SDG 8. This goal aims to promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
SDG 4: Quality Education
The article also indirectly connects to SDG 4, as it mentions limitations on working hours for minors on school days. This relates to the importance of ensuring that children have access to quality education.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
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
The article highlights the proposed bill’s aim to strengthen child labor laws, including limitations on working hours for minors. This aligns with Target 8.7, which focuses on eradicating child labor.
Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes
While not explicitly mentioned in the article, the proposed limitations on working hours for minors on school days indirectly support Target 4.1. By ensuring that children have adequate time for education, it contributes to the goal of quality education for all.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
The article does not explicitly mention any indicators. However, Indicator 8.7.1 can be used to measure progress towards Target 8.7. It involves tracking the proportion and number of children aged 5-17 years engaged in child labor, by sex and age group.
4. SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| SDG 4: Quality Education | Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes | Indicator 4.1.1: Proportion of children and young people (a) in grades 2/3; (b) at the end of primary; and (c) at the end of lower secondary achieving at least a minimum proficiency level in (i) reading and (ii) mathematics, by sex |
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Source: sj-r.com
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