They’re just kids. But now I see that we’re going to solve Iowa’s workforce shortage on the backs of our high school students.
Senate File 167 by Sen. Jason Schultz, R-Schleswig, would allow teens to work longer hours and more types of jobs. The legislation would allow:
But the most concerning changes in the legislation are in Section 92.24: If teens participate in a work-based learning or a school or employer work-related program, the state’s workforce development director would have the discretion to waive prohibitions on minors working in manufacturing, mining, and food processing, in some cases. This would allow 14 and 15-year-olds to work in industrial freezers, meat coolers, unloading and loading “light” tools, and industrial laundries.
Here’s the kicker: If a minor becomes ill, is injured, or killed, companies would be shielded from liability. (Exception: Only the highest standard, gross negligence or willful misconduct could be filed in civil court.) No workers’ compensation claims, either.
Based on my farm perspective, I’ve had plenty of opportunity to observe the real-life impacts of inappropriate expectations of youth in the workplace. I was asked to serve on...
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