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Bill

HB 1731

TO STRENGTHEN CHILD LABOR LAWS THROUGH THE REINSTATEMENT OF EMPLOYMENT CERTIFICATES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by DeAnn Vaught

HB 1731 aimed to protect minors by requiring employment certificates for those under 16, ensuring safe work conditions and preventing child labor violations in Arkansas.

WITHDRAWN BY AUTHOR
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1731

Summary of House Bill 1731

Bill Number: HB 1731
Title: To Strengthen Child Labor Laws Through the Reinstatement of Employment Certificates
Status: Withdrawn by Author
Introduced: March 10, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1731 aimed to strengthen child labor laws in Arkansas by reinstating the requirement for employment certificates for minors under the age of sixteen. The bill was introduced with the intent to protect children from hazardous work environments while ensuring that employment does not interfere with their education. The legislation was motivated by a significant increase in child labor violations in the state, highlighting the need for stricter regulations.

Key Provisions

The bill proposed several key changes to existing child labor laws:

  1. Reinstatement of Employment Certificates:

    • Children under sixteen years of age would be required to obtain an employment certificate as a condition of employment.
    • The certificate would serve as a verification of age and would need to be kept on file by employers.

  2. Application Process:

    • Employment certificates would be issued by the Director of the Division of Labor.
    • The application process would require:
      • Proof of age
      • A description of the work and work schedule
      • Written consent from a parent or guardian

  3. Educational Component:

    • The bill emphasized the importance of educating employers, children, and parents about employment laws related to minors, thereby promoting a safe working environment.

  4. Legislative Findings:

    • The bill included findings that highlighted the rise in child labor violations (266% increase from 2020-2023) and the corresponding financial penalties (600% increase).
    • It referenced research indicating that states with employment certificate mandates experience significantly lower rates of child labor violations.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1731 would have affected:
- Employers: Required to obtain and maintain employment certificates for minors.
- Minors: Those under sixteen would need to comply with the new requirement to work legally.
- Parents/Guardians: Would need to provide written consent for their child's employment.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: March 10, 2025
  • Committee Referral: The bill was referred to the Public Health, Welfare, and Labor Committee.
  • Withdrawal: The bill was withdrawn by the author on April 8, 2025, before further legislative action could take place.

Conclusion

While HB 1731 was withdrawn and did not progress through the legislative process, it underscored ongoing concerns regarding child labor practices in Arkansas and the need for protective measures to ensure the safety and well-being of minors in the workforce.

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

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