Des Moines, IA- Lawmakers in the Iowa House have passed a controversial bill that would loosen child labor laws in the state, with some amendments.
TV Station KCRG reports that the bill would allow 14 to 17-year-olds to work in industries currently prohibited from hiring minors, such as demolition, roofing, and manufacturing, but only as a part of a school or employer training program.
The bill would also allow 14 and 15-year-olds to work longer shifts, until 9 PM during the school year and 11 PM during the summer, and also lets 14 and 15-year-olds work up to 6 hours a day, rather than the current limit of 4 hours.
Amendments to the bill include allowing 16 and 17 year old’s to serve alcohol with parents’ permission. Two adults must also be present for this.
Employers would also be required to undergo sexual harassment training.
The amended bill now goes back to the Iowa Senate.
