Florida Senate Panel Advances Bill to Ease Child Labor Laws

The proposal would allow 14-year-olds to work overnight shifts and remove hour and meal restrictions for older teens, addressing labor shortages tied to strict immigration policies.

The Florida Senate Commerce and Tourism Committee approved the bill in a 5-4 vote, moving it closer to a full Senate review.
The legislation would permit 14- and 15-year-olds to work overnight shifts under certain conditions and remove work-hour and meal break restrictions for 16- and 17-year-olds.
Supporters, including Governor Ron DeSantis, argue the changes address labor shortages caused by the state's 2023 immigration crackdown and mandatory E-Verify requirements.
Critics warn the bill could exploit vulnerable teenagers, harm their education, and exacerbate already high levels of child labor violations in Florida.
The proposal reflects a broader trend in Republican-led states rolling back child labor protections to mitigate workforce shortages.