Overview

• Democratic Governor Tony Evers vetoed a Republican bill that sought to allow 14- and 15-year-olds in Wisconsin to work without parental consent or a state permit.
• The vetoed bill was part of a broader effort to roll back child labor laws, amidst national scrutiny over increased child labor violations.
• Evers emphasized the importance of maintaining a system that protects children from exploitation and ensures their safety in the workplace.
• The bill's proponents argued it would reduce bureaucratic hurdles for employers and support the state's workforce needs.
• Labor organizations, including the Wisconsin AFL-CIO, have praised the veto, highlighting the critical role of work permits in safeguarding young workers.