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House approves bill raising penalties for child-labor violations after floor debate; 117-85
Summary
The Pennsylvania House on March 24 approved House Bill 118 to increase statutory fines for child-labor law violations, after floor debate that split lawmakers along concerns about enforcement and effects on small employers. The measure passed on final passage, 117 yeas to 85 nays.
The Pennsylvania House of Representatives on March 24 passed House Bill 118, which raises penalties for violations of the state's child labor law, by a final vote of 117 yeas to 85 nays.
Proponents said the bill strengthens deterrence against employers who exploit minors; opponents warned higher fines could discourage small businesses from hiring teenagers. Representative Marcia Young, the bill's sponsor, said the measure merely increases existing penalties and urged colleagues to protect young workers. "No child should have to worry about their rights being disregarded or disrespected," Young said on the floor.
The bill increases the monetary penalties that apply upon conviction. Under the language described on the House floor, first-offense fines rise from $500 to $1,000 and repeat-offender fines rise from…
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