U.S. labor officials confirm Iowa’s new child labor law ‘inconsistent’ with federal rules
U.S. labor officials confirm Iowa’s new child labor law 'inconsistent' with federal rules KCCI Des Moines
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U.S. labor officials confirm Iowa’s new child labor law ‘inconsistent’ with federal rules
Introduction
A Senate Committee approved big changes to child labor laws in Iowa. The Iowa Senate voted 29 to 18 to loosen child labor laws, allowing teenagers to work more hours a day and later at night. The plan also permits 16 and 17-year-olds to serve alcohol in restaurants with parental permission. The Iowa House passed the bill last night.
Violation of Federal Law
The U.S. Department of Labor sent a letter to Iowa Democrats confirming that the new child labor law signed by Governor Kim Reynolds in May violates federal law. Iowa Democrats had previously expressed their concerns about the law in a letter sent to federal officials in March. The law eased restrictions on the number of hours minors could work and the types of jobs they could have. The U.S. Department of Labor identified two ways in which the law appears to be inconsistent with federal child labor law:
- The Iowa law allows 16 and 17-year-olds to operate dangerous power-driven machines, engage in heavy manufacturing, and work in demolition, all of which are prohibited under federal child labor laws.
- The new Iowa law does not require 16 and 17-year-olds working in apprenticeship or student-learner roles to be registered by the U.S. Department of Labor or a state agency, which is required by federal law.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of global goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015. Goal 8 of the SDGs focuses on promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work for all. It aims to ensure that all workers, including young workers, have access to safe and secure working environments.
Impact on Iowa Kids and Businesses
The child labor expansion enforced by Republican politicians and Governor Reynolds has raised concerns about the safety of Iowa kids and businesses. Senator Nate Boulton, D-Des Moines, stated that the new law exposes children to hazardous environments that could result in injuries or even fatalities. He emphasized that the legislation itself acknowledged these risks. Furthermore, the law creates bureaucratic confusion that can lead employers to violate federal laws.
Conclusion
The U.S. Department of Labor has confirmed that Iowa’s new child labor law is inconsistent with federal rules. The law allows teenagers to engage in potentially dangerous work and exempts them from registration requirements. While states have the authority to pass more protective child labor laws, they cannot nullify federal requirements with less protective laws. It is crucial for policymakers to consider the safety and well-being of young workers while promoting economic growth and employment opportunities.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 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.
- SDG 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
No specific indicators are mentioned in the article. However, potential indicators to measure progress towards the identified targets could include:
- Number of reported cases of child labor violations
- Number of hours worked by minors
- Number of hazardous jobs performed by minors
- Number of registered 16- and 17-year-olds working in apprenticeship or student-learner roles
Table: 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. |
|
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels. | No specific indicators mentioned in the article. |
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: kcci.com
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