Wave of States Loosens Child Labor Protections, Raising Concerns

A growing list of states has recently relaxed child labor laws, expanding hours teens can work and allowing younger individuals into previously restricted roles. Proponents of these legislative changes say it helps alleviate worker shortages in hospitality, retail, and agriculture, claiming that teens benefit from early work experience and additional earnings. Detractors, including labor advocates and child welfare organizations, argue it undermines educational priorities and opens doors to exploitation, particularly for at-risk youth. In places like Indiana, the legal age for late shifts has been lowered, while Arkansas removed certain permit requirements for under-16 workers. Civil rights groups warn that such expansions can disproportionately harm low-income or migrant teens, who may feel pressured into excessive hours. Amid these debates, child labor law changes highlight a tension between economic imperatives and the duty to protect and educate minors.