Hawaii Senate Bill SCR99

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/11/25

Caption

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.

Impact

If ratified, this amendment would resolve the ongoing regulatory confusion surrounding child labor laws in the United States. It aims to ensure both federal and state frameworks are consistent in the protection of minors from exploitative labor scenarios. Given the historical context, the amendment would mark a significant shift in the balance of state versus federal power regarding labor laws while reinforcing protections for children. The proposal reflects an ongoing commitment by Hawaii to align with national standards and practices that prioritize child welfare.

Summary

SCR99 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution proposed in the 2025 legislative session of Hawaii, which seeks to ratify a constitutional amendment that empowers Congress to limit, regulate, and prohibit labor performed by individuals under eighteen years of age. This amendment stems from historical attempts to regulate child labor at the federal level, particularly in light of past Supreme Court rulings that deemed earlier child labor laws unconstitutional due to overreach of federal powers.

Contention

Debates surrounding the ratification of SCR99 highlight concerns about states' rights and the potential for federal overreach. There are lingering sentiments against increased federal authority, dating back to the mid-20th century when other child labor legislative attempts were criticized for infringing on state autonomy. Opponents fear the consequences of a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to labor regulations that may not adequately consider local economic conditions or cultural norms, raising the stakes for both advocates and critics of the proposal. Nonetheless, supporters argue that history shows the necessity of federal legislation to protect vulnerable populations from economic exploitation.