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SR 81

RATIFYING A PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES GIVING THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES POWER TO LIMIT, REGULATE, AND PROHIBIT THE LABOR OF PERSONS UNDER EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 2 co-sponsors

Hawaii ratifies federal constitutional amendment granting Congress power to regulate and prohibit labor by persons under eighteen years old.

Referred to EIG/LBT, JDC.
#childlaboramendment #ratification #unitedstatesconstitution
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SR 81

Legislative bill overview

SR 81 is a state resolution ratifying a proposed federal constitutional amendment that would grant Congress explicit power to regulate and restrict child labor nationwide. This amendment would add new authority to the federal government beyond current child labor regulations under the Fair Labor Standards Act and other existing laws.

Why is this important

Child labor laws are currently enforced through federal legislation and interstate commerce regulations, but this amendment would constitutionally embed Congress's authority to set child labor standards. This could potentially strengthen enforcement mechanisms and clarify federal jurisdiction in cases where current legal frameworks face constitutional challenges or gaps.

Potential points of contention

  • Federalism concerns: The amendment expands federal power over labor matters traditionally regulated at state and local levels, raising questions about state autonomy in setting age-appropriate work standards
  • Implementation scope: Ambiguity exists regarding what "regulate" and "prohibit" entail—whether this could restrict youth employment in family businesses, agricultural work, or unpaid internships that currently have exemptions
  • Necessity debate: Critics may argue existing federal child labor laws already provide adequate protection, making a constitutional amendment unnecessary and potentially overreaching

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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