Illinois Governor Signs Major Child Labor Law

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has enacted Senate Bill 3646, the Child Labor Law of 2024, to modernize child labor regulations and enhance protections for minors in the workforce. This legislation establishes stricter working conditions for children aged 15 and younger, limiting their work hours to 18 during school weeks and 40 during breaks, while also prohibiting them from working in certain high-risk environments such as adult entertainment venues and cannabis shops. Pritzker emphasized Illinois' commitment to safeguarding minors against exploitative practices, contrasting the state's approach with neighboring regions that are loosening labor laws. The law requires school officials to oversee work opportunities, ensuring they align with the minors' health, welfare, and educational needs, and introduces a more comprehensive certification process for employment permits. Additionally, the Illinois Department of Labor is empowered with new enforcement tools to uphold these regulations and protect vulnerable youth. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.