In a controversial move, the Iowa state senate has passed a bill that would loosen child labor laws, allowing teenagers under the age of 18 to work longer hours and in previously restricted fields. The bill, which was passed in a pre-dawn session on Tuesday, has been met with criticism from labor leaders and child welfare advocates.
Under the new legislation, 14- to 17-year-olds would be allowed to work longer hours and in jobs that are currently prohibited, such as serving alcohol. The bill also removes restrictions on the number of hours minors can work during school hours and expands the types of hazardous jobs that minors can perform.
The bill was passed by a vote of 32-17, with one Republican voting against the bill alongside all 16 Democrats. The bill now goes to the House for further debate.
The changes to Iowa's child labor laws have been met with criticism from labor leaders, who say that the bill puts children at risk by allowing them to work longer hours and in more hazardous jobs. One labor leader called it a "disgrace" that the GOP-controlled Senate passed the bill loosening child labor laws.
Child welfare advocates have also criticized the bill, saying that it puts children's safety and well-being at risk. They argue that children should be protected from dangerous and exploitative work, and that the bill undermines the progress that has been made in protecting children from exploitation.
The bill has also been criticized for its potential impact on children's education. Advocates say that allowing children to work longer hours during school hours could have a negative impact on their academic performance and future opportunities.
Despite the criticism, supporters of the bill argue that it will provide more opportunities for young people to gain work experience and develop job skills. They say that the bill will help to address labor shortages in certain industries and provide businesses with a reliable workforce.
The passage of the bill has sparked a heated debate about the role of child labor laws in protecting children's safety and well-being. Some argue that child labor laws are necessary to prevent exploitation and protect children from harm, while others argue that they limit opportunities for young people and stifle economic growth.
The bill is expected to face further debate and opposition in the House, where Democrats hold a slim majority. Supporters of the bill say that they are confident that it will pass, but opponents are vowing to continue fighting against the legislation.
In the meantime, children in Iowa may soon be able to work longer hours and in previously restricted fields, raising concerns about their safety and well-being. As the debate over child labor laws continues, it remains to be seen what the future holds for young workers in Iowa and across the country.
