Protecting Children from Unsafe Labor: Stricter Penalties and Enhanced Oversight
This act aims to strengthen the protection of children from labor exploitation and unsafe working conditions. It introduces significantly higher monetary penalties and imprisonment for violations of child labor laws, especially in cases of serious injury or death. It also facilitates claims by affected children and enhances oversight and research capabilities regarding child labor issues.
Key points
Significantly increased civil penalties for oppressive child labor and unsafe working conditions, with potential doubling for repeat violations.
Enhanced criminal penalties, including longer prison sentences, for negligently or knowingly endangering children, or causing their death, in the workplace.
Establishment of a Child Labor and Safety and Health Fund, financed by collected penalties, to support investigations, training, and research.
Creation of a National Advisory Committee on Child Labor to provide expert advice on protecting children from unsafe employment.
Enabling private enforcement, allowing harmed children to seek compensatory and punitive damages from employers.
Increased research and data collection on child labor, including work-related injuries and illnesses among young workers.
Expired
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