Department of Labor Raises Fines for Child Labor

The Department of Labor announced an increase in fines for illegal employment of children in agriculture.  The fine for illegal employment of 12 and 13 year olds is now at least $6,000 per violation.  The fine for employing children under 12 has increased to at least $8,000 per violation.  Additionally, possible penalties could reach $11,000 per violation for illegal employment of worker under 14 years old depending on certain conditions including injury, willfulness, or repeat offenders.

The Fair Labor Standards Act, 29 U.S.C. §§ 201-219, establishes rules governing child labor.  According to the press release, "individuals under age 12 may be employed with parental consent, but only on very small farms that are not subject to the federal minimum wage requirements.  Individuals ages 12 and 13 may be employed in agricultural work on the same farm as a parent, or with a parent's consent.  Generally, no hired farm worker under age 16 may perform hazardous work or be employed during school hours."

To read the DOL press release, click here.
To read the MSNBC article, click here.
For the DOL Wage and Hour Division Child Labor Regulations, click here.

Posted: 06/22/2010