Florida Advances Bill to Ease Child Labor Restrictions Amid Labor Shortages

Senate Bill 918, backed by Governor Ron DeSantis, proposes longer work hours for teens as young as 14, prompting ethical concerns from critics.

Senate Bill 918, now awaiting a full legislative vote, would allow teens aged 14 and older to work overnight shifts and remove meal and hour restrictions for older teens.
Governor Ron DeSantis supports the bill, framing it as a solution to labor shortages caused by strict immigration policies that reduced the availability of undocumented workers.
Critics argue the measure exploits vulnerable teenagers, particularly from low-income families, to fill low-wage jobs in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and fast food.
The bill has faced bipartisan opposition, with Republican Senator Joe Gruters emphasizing the need to protect childhood and education over economic interests.
This proposal aligns with broader efforts in Republican-led states to deregulate labor markets, raising concerns about the erosion of labor protections and educational standards.