In February, a federal investigation found that Packers Sanitation Services illegally employed at least 102 children “in hazardous occupations” across 13 meat processing facilities in eight states. The children were found “working overnight shifts” and using “caustic chemicals” to clean “razor-sharp saws,” “head splitters,” and other equipment. At least three children were injured.

Two of the meatpacking plants implicated are in Arkansas. Nevertheless, this month, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R) signed a new law that makes it harder to ensure kids are working in safe conditions

Previously, children younger than 16 needed an employment certificate to work. The certificate, which was granted by the Arkansas Department of Labor, required the signature of a parent or guardian and proof of age. This process is “one of the only oversight mechanisms for child labor in the state.” Proponents say eliminating these safeguards will “streamline the hiring process for children under 16.”

The “Youth Hiring Act of 2023” gets rid of the certificate, allowing 14- and 15-year olds to work without parental sign-off or age verification.

Childrens' advocates in Arkansas are sounding the alarm. “That paperwork is only [so] that [as] a parent we can ensure that a parent is aware that the child is getting the job and that the hours worked don’t violate child labor laws,” Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families Director Laura Kellams told KNWA. “There are special protections in...

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