Child Labor Fines Increased by the Department of Labor

One of the last things we ever concern ourselves with is child labor.  It certainly does not seem to be a problem within the United States, and we do not foresee it ever developing into a serious problem as it has in many third world companies.

The problem already exists.  Living in the Midwest, the issue of child labor is one that we do not concern ourselves with as much, but even in our neck of the woods it is still a daunting problem.  At local companies and on private farms, child labor is used as a cheap means to productivity.

But the Department of Labor has acted accordingly.  The Department of Labor announced last week that the companies that employ young children will see a severe increase in fines.  The fines has previously leveled off around $900-$1,150, but they will be raised as high as $6000-$8000.  This unexpected increase in penalties could reach as high as $11,000 if the employers in violation have offended in the past or if one of their juvenile employees is in any way harmed while on the job.  

Past legislation permits children 16 and older to work under safe conditions, because children under the age of 16 are more susceptible to mental vulnerability, and consequently, physical disability.  

If you would like to learn more about this child endangerment issue or if you believe that a child you love has suffered from a severe injury while working illegally because he or she was under age, we urge you to give our law offices a call.  The Kansas City-based child injury and accident attorneys of Roswold Law Group are committed to protecting children from injury and accident situations.  But when they do occur, we are well-prepared to take on your case and fight for the justice and compensation that is rightfully owed to your child.