Pennsylvania House Bill HB1714

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/26/23
• Refer: 9/26/23

Caption

Further providing for administration and for penalties.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 1714 could significantly alter the enforcement landscape surrounding child labor laws in Pennsylvania. By requiring annual reporting on various metrics, the bill aims to ensure greater transparency and accountability from the Department of Labor and Industry. The focus on unaccompanied alien minors indicates an intent to assert stricter oversight in areas where children and minors are disproportionately affected, which could lead to stronger protection measures and consequences for noncompliance.

Summary

House Bill 1714 seeks to amend Pennsylvania's Child Labor Act by enhancing the administration of the existing regulations and introducing new penalties for violations. The bill mandates that the Department of Labor and Industry will provide annual reports to the General Assembly on its enforcement activities, including the number of complaints and investigations. Additionally, it aims to incorporate specific provisions for addressing violations related to unaccompanied alien minors, which reflects a growing concern over the protection of vulnerable populations in the workforce.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 1714 appears to be cautiously optimistic among proponents who view the enhancements as necessary for better protection of minors in the workforce. However, there are concerns among some stakeholders regarding the feasibility of increased reporting requirements and whether they might distract from the core mission of the department. Critics may argue that without adequate resources, the implementation of these changes could be challenging.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1714 include the potential administrative burden that the increased reporting requirements might impose on the Department of Labor and Industry, as well as concerns around how these amendments will specifically address the issues facing unaccompanied alien minors in employment settings. There is also debate about whether the bill sufficiently addresses the broader issue of child labor protections or whether it merely adds layers of regulation without effectively improving the situation for vulnerable minors.