(Greenfield) Iowa House District #23 Representative Ray Sorensen clarifies what he says are misrepresentations of the Child Labor Bill, or Senate File 542. The Greenfield Republicans say this bill has been worked on by Representatives, Senators, Iowa Workforce Development, and businesses, including grocery stores and restaurants, which hire many individuals under 18.
Sorensen clarifies the bill does not allow children to work with dangerous equipment, chemicals, etc. He says sections 4, 8, and 9 make it clear that individuals under the age of 18 are not able to work in mines, meatpacking plants, dangerous chemicals, and more.
Representative Sorensen says this bill has undergone many changes suggested by the labor unions and bar association. After reading the statement, he says it does not take much thought that it responsibly updates ancient code and includes reasonable and safe updates. He says it strikes a balance to ensure parental consent and safety while enabling young Iowans to build work ethic and skills, earn their own money, and begin to figure out their future.
The Child Labor Bill was introduced on March 6 and passed through the Senate last week.
