An escalation in illegal child labor
President Biden's Response
Illegal child labor is increasingly becoming a significant issue in the United States, leading the Biden administration to take decisive action. Recent investigations have revealed troubling instances of child labor that underscore the need for more rigorous enforcement and legislative measures to protect young workers.
Just last month, after weeks of surveillance, the Department of Labor (DOL) uncovered severe violations at two meatpacking and slaughterhouse facilities in Virginia and Iowa. A janitorial service was found responsible for employing dozens of children to work overnight shifts. These young workers were subjected to cleaning hazardous machinery with high-powered hoses, scalding water, and dangerous chemicals—conditions far from acceptable for anyone, let alone minors.
One distressing case involved a 16-year-old who reported working up to 54 hours a week over two years, cleaning perilous machines during overnight shifts, even when school was in session. Another shocking incident involved a 13-year-old who suffered a severe injury while cleaning a conveyor belt. This young worker spent 12 days in the hospital and missed several months of school, illustrating the severe risks involved.
In response to these alarming situations, the Biden administration has directed the DOL to adopt new enforcement strategies focused on child labor protection. These include establishing a “victim’s fund” to provide resources for teenagers found working illegally, aiding them in rebuilding their lives. Additionally, the DOL has doubled the fines imposed on corporations that exploit child labor, underscoring a zero-tolerance policy for such practices.
The House is set to release its proposed funding bill for the Department of Labor this week. Advocates are urging the Appropriations Committee to oppose funding caps that would restrict the DOL's ability to tackle exploitative child labor effectively. Adequate funding is essential to ensure comprehensive enforcement of child labor laws.
Data from the Economic Policy Institute highlights the gravity of the situation. Last year saw a 37% increase in the number of minors employed in violation of child labor laws compared to the previous year. The DOL identified 955 violations involving nearly 5,800 children. This rising trend is partly driven by employers seeking to reduce labor costs in a tight market and by legislative efforts at the state and federal levels to weaken child labor protections.
Disturbingly, at least 10 states have introduced or enacted laws rolling back child labor protections over the past two years. These legislative changes endanger the safety and well-being of young workers and undermine long-standing labor rights advancements.
As the prevalence of illegal child labor continues to grow, it is crucial for legislators, businesses, and the public to take a firm stand. Let’s ensure our laws protect vulnerable children and hold those who exploit them accountable. While the battle against child labor exploitation is ongoing, dedicated effort and unwavering resolve can help secure a safer and more just future for our youth.
WHILE MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN. CHILD HUNGER.
"When I was hungry you put up posters of the Ten Commandments, while making sure I didn't receive a school lunch."