Virginia 2024 Regular Session

Virginia House Bill HB100

Introduced
12/30/23  
Refer
12/30/23  
Report Pass
1/23/24  
Engrossed
1/26/24  
Refer
1/30/24  
Report Pass
2/19/24  
Report Pass
2/27/24  
Engrossed
2/28/24  
Engrossed
3/1/24  
Enrolled
3/7/24  
Chaptered
4/3/24  

Caption

Child labor offenses; increases civil penalties.

Impact

The bill's impact on state laws will be significant as it revises the Code of Virginia regarding penalties for child labor offenses. By imposing higher fines, it is expected that employers will exercise greater caution in hiring minors and complying with labor laws. Additionally, the creation of a stakeholder work group by the Department of Labor and Industry is intended to further educate young workers and their guardians about child labor laws, fostering a better-informed workforce and promoting safer working conditions for minors. This educational outreach is a proactive measure designed to complement the enforcement of the new penalties.

Summary

House Bill 100 aims to increase the civil penalties associated with child labor offenses in Virginia. The bill revises existing penalties, increasing the maximum fine for violations that result in serious injury or death of a child from $10,000 to $25,000, while other violations are raised from a range of $500-$1,000 to $2,500. This change emphasizes the state's commitment to enhancing protections for young workers and ensuring that employers are held accountable for violations of child labor laws. Overall, the amendment seeks to deter potential violations by imposing significant financial consequences on offending employers.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 100 appears to be supportive among labor advocates and child welfare organizations. These groups view the increased penalties as a necessary step toward strengthening worker protections and combating the exploitation of young workers. There are likely positive responses from constituents who prioritize the welfare of children in the workforce. However, there may be some opposition from certain business interests concerned about the financial implications of increased penalties and potential impacts on hiring practices.

Contention

Despite the broad support for child labor protections, there might be contention regarding the adequacy of penalties and the degree to which they could impact small businesses. Some critics may argue that the increased penalties could disproportionately affect smaller employers who might inadvertently violate child labor laws due to lack of resources or knowledge. Balancing enforcement and compliance support for businesses will be a key point of discussion as the bill is implemented, ensuring that penalties serve their intended purpose without unduly burdening honest employers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VA HB1988

Employment; paid sick leave, civil penalties.

VA SB1126

Commercial delivery services; authorized use for notice to an employer for violation of safety prov.

VA HB2179

Commercial delivery services; authorized use for notice to an employer for violation of safety prov.

VA SB1086

Living organ donors; unpaid leave, civil penalty.

VA HB2023

Wage or salary history inquiries prohibited; civil penalty.

VA HB1685

Business local; taxes, penalties.

VA SB792

COVID-19 immunization; prohibition on requirement, discrimination prohibited, civil penalty.

VA SB833

COVID-19 immunization; prohibition on requirement, discrimination prohibited, civil penalty.

VA SB1250

Video gaming terminals; penalties.

VA SB1040

Employee's social security number; prohibited use by employer, civil penalty.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.