Boston, MA – State Representative Barbara L’Italien (D-Andover) today announced that the Massachusetts Legislature gave final approval to legislation increasing workplace protections for the Commonwealth’s 300,000 young workers. The bill, which is now on the Governor’s desk, marks the first major reform of the state’s child labor laws in nearly 70 years.
“Half of Massachusetts 16 and 17 year olds have jobs and workplace injury rates for minors are double those reported for adults,” said L’Italien. “Clearly the provisions and safeguards incorporated in this bill are needed to keep our kids safe and give their parents the peace of mind they deserve.”
The legislation simplifies the work permit process and expands the Attorney General’s enforcement authority by allowing him to bring civil charges against violating employers. In addition, it requires on site adult supervision of teens working after 8 p.m. and prohibits minors from holding jobs that require them to carry a firearm.
“Bringing our child labor laws into the 21st Century will be beneficial for both employees and employers,” said L’Italien. “Working teenagers learn valuable life lessons in the workplace; this legislation guarantees that those lessons will be learned in a safe and appropriate environment.”
