Hunter
02/15/23
Legislators are advancing a bill that would loosen labor laws to employ teenagers in jobs they’re currently unable to do.
The Gazette says if passed, 14-year-olds could work in freezers and meat coolers, load non-power tools to and from vehicles, and work in laundry and detasseling. Fifteen-year-olds would be able to do work like loading and unloading groceries from trucks, stocking shelves with items up to 30 pounds, and working as a lifeguard. People aged 16 and 17 would also be allowed to serve drinks at bars and restaurants.
Teenagers could also get a head start on careers in construction, manufacturing and mining through waivers from the Iowa Department of Workforce Development.
Business groups applauded the plan, saying it will help with workforce shortages and in some cases provide students with some hands-on learning in vocational fields so they can advance more quickly once out of high school.
Opponents say loosening the law could put kids in dangerous situations. A lobbyist for the Iowa chapter of the American Federation of Labor said it could lead to children working in factories assembling parts.