HARRISBURG, PA — As summer break approaches and teenagers seek employment opportunities, Secretary Nancy A. Walker of the Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) reminds Pennsylvanians about the protections offered to workers under the age of 18 by the state’s Child Labor Act.
The Child Labor Act, enforced by L&I’s Bureau of Labor Law Compliance (BLLC), aims to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of minors employed in Pennsylvania. It does this by limiting employment in certain establishments and occupations, restricting work hours, regulating working conditions, and requiring work permits for children hired for jobs.
In 2023, BLLC investigators saw a 43 percent increase in child labor cases, rising from 402 cases in 2022 to 574 cases in 2023. Overall, BLLC investigated more than 5,200 complaints of alleged labor law violations—a 27 percent increase from the previous year.
The Child Labor Act has specific provisions for three age categories: under 14, 14-15, and 16-17. For all minors under 16, a written statement from the parent or guardian is necessary, acknowledging the duties and hours of employment and granting permission to work. Minors also need to obtain a work permit from their school district.
No minors, except those involved in newspaper delivery, may work more than six consecutive days. Additionally, all minors must receive a 30-minute meal period on or before five consecutive hours of work. Full- or part-time minors must be paid at least the minimum wage, currently $7.25 per hour.
Under-14 Work Restrictions
Children under 14 can work only under specific circumstances, such as on a family farm, in domestic service (babysitting, yard work, household chores), or as newspaper carriers, caddies, or entertainment performers with special permits.
14-15-Year-Olds Work Restrictions
When school is not in session, 14 and 15-year-olds can work between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., no more than eight hours a day, or 40 hours a week. Different standards may apply for specific jobs like newspaper delivery, caddying, and some farm work. During the school year, they can work between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., no more than three hours a day on school days, or 18 hours a school week. This work must not interfere with school attendance.
16-17-Year-Olds Work Restrictions
When school is not in session, 16 and 17-year-olds can work between 6 a.m. and 1 a.m., no more than 10 hours a day, or 48 hours a week. Employers cannot require them to work more than 45 hours a week. During the school year, they can work between 6 a.m. and 12 a.m., no more than eight hours a day on school days, or 28 hours a school week. This work must not interfere with school attendance.
Prohibited Occupations for All Minors
Minors are prohibited from working in hazardous environments, as designated by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Prohibited occupations include those that involve dangerous equipment, weapons, or activities such as:
- Crane operation
- Electrical work
- Excavation
- Roofing
- Woodworking
- Wrecking and demolition
A comprehensive list of prohibited occupations for all minors in Pennsylvania is available on L&I’s website.
The importance of these regulations cannot be overstated. They ensure that young workers are protected from exploitation and hazardous conditions, allowing them to gain work experience safely. The rise in labor law violations highlights the need for vigilance in enforcing these rules.
As teenagers look for summer jobs, it is crucial for employers, parents, and young workers themselves to understand and comply with these laws. This not only protects the well-being of young workers but also fosters a safe and fair working environment for all.
By adhering to the Child Labor Act, Pennsylvania continues to prioritize the health and safety of its youngest workforce members, ensuring that their introduction to the labor market is both positive and secure.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.