Currently, the state legislature of Florida is considering a significant change to its child labor laws in response to labor shortages caused by a crackdown on undocumented immigration. The proposed bill aims to allow children as young as 14 years old to work in various jobs, a move that has sparked extensive debate within the community and among lawmakers.

One of the key aspects of this proposed legislation is that it would not only lower the legal working age but also ease restrictions on the number of hours that young workers can be employed. For instance, the bill would allow 14- and 15-year-olds who are either home-schooled or enrolled in virtual schooling to work longer hours, even lifting restrictions on nighttime work. Additionally, for older teens aged 16 and 17, the bill would allow them to work more than eight hours on school nights, thus providing greater flexibility for employers looking to fill vacant positions.

Several news outlets have reported on this unfolding situation. For instance, WSVN highlights how the legislature advanced a bill that permits children as young as 14 to work in response to the labor shortage. CNN, on the other hand, notes the broader implications of this move, indicating that lawmakers are turning to minors to fill low-wage jobs left vacant by the impact of immigration policy. Newsweek emphasizes that the proposal underscores a significant shift in labor practices, whereas WESH reports specifically on the proposed easing of regulations for older teens.

The discussions around these legislative changes highlight the ongoing tension between addressing labor market needs and concerns about child welfare and education. As Florida navigates these contentious issues, the outcome of this proposed bill could have lasting implications for young workers and the state's economy.

For more detailed information, you can follow the links to the articles:

• WSVN
• Local 10
• Newsweek
• WESH
• Euronews
• Miami Herald
• Catherine Rampell on X

Sources

Florida debates lifting some child labor laws to fill jobs vacated by ...Florida lawmakers may loosen child labor laws to fill jobs left by ...Florida May Replace Immigrant Workers With Child Labor - NewsweekFlorida lawmakers advance bill to ease child labor restrictions - WESHFlorida to consider relaxing child labour laws to fill vacant jobsFlorida may loosen child-labor laws as state cracks down on illegal ...Catherine Rampell - X

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