Prairie State Wire

Governor JB Pritzker has signed Senate Bill 3646, known as the Child Labor Law of 2024, into law. This legislation aims to modernize child labor regulations in Illinois by replacing the existing statute with a new framework designed to protect minors from exploitation.

"While neighboring states weaken their child labor laws, in Illinois we're modernizing our regulatory framework to further protect minors from unscrupulous employers," said Governor JB Pritzker. He emphasized that minors should have access to safe and age-appropriate work environments.

The bill establishes standards for working conditions for children aged 15 and younger, including limiting work hours and updating prohibited job lists. School officials are required to review a minor's work opportunity and issue an employment certificate with parental or guardian consent before lawful employment can begin.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul expressed his commitment to working with the Illinois Department of Labor to safeguard minors from exploitation and unsafe working conditions. "I will use all tools available to ensure minors are not subjected to unlawful labor practices," he stated.

The legislation updates the school certification process by requiring officers to consider the "health, welfare, and education" of the minor when assessing applications. It also mandates that a minor's work permit include their school schedule and clarifies processes for homeless minors or those without birth certificates.

The Illinois Department of Labor is granted new enforcement tools under SB 3646. Penalty amounts are updated, and a multiplier is added for cases involving a minor's death, injury, or illness. Employers must report any workplace injuries or fatalities involving minors to their schools.

State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) highlighted the importance of updating child labor laws as industries evolve. "This overhaul of the Illinois Child Labor Law shows the value we place on young people in the workforce by supporting their economic growth, prioritizing their education, and ensuring their safety and protection," he said.

Rep. Barbara Hernandez (D-Aurora) emphasized the need for robust protections against exploitation and abuse in youth employment. "By keeping children safe, we can ensure their continued contributions to their communities and to the future of Illinois," she remarked.

Illinois Department of Labor Director Jane Flanagan noted that youth workers are among the most vulnerable in the workforce. The updated rules aim to protect them from dangerous jobs while promoting enforcement against retaliation for reporting unsafe or illegal situations.

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders praised lawmakers for considering students' school schedules in work permits, balancing educational needs with financial opportunities.

Illinois AFL-CIO President Tim Drea expressed gratitude towards Governor Pritzker and state agencies for standing firm on protecting young workers amid national rollbacks on child labor protections.

Jose Frausto from Chicago Workers Collaborative acknowledged efforts by state leaders in modernizing child labor laws amid rising violations across states. Economic Policy Institute Analyst Nina Mast lauded Illinois' leadership in strengthening its child labor laws through SB 3646's updates on youth work permits and penalties.

SB 3646 will take effect on January 1, 2025.