# data[].attributes.body
Child labor laws are regulations that control the work that children are allowed to do and the conditions under which they can work. These laws are designed to ensure that working children are not exploited and that their work does not interfere with their education and development.

# data[].attributes.body
Child labor laws were created to protect the rights and well-being of minors. They were established in response to the harsh conditions children faced during the Industrial Revolution, where many worked long hours in dangerous situations for little pay.

# data[].attributes.body
In the USA, child labor laws establish minimum age requirements for various types of work. Generally, the minimum age is 14 years old, but there are exceptions for entertainment, agriculture, and family businesses.

# data[].attributes.body
Child labor laws also restrict the number of hours children can work. For example, 14 and 15-year-olds can only work outside of school hours and not more than 3 hours on a school day or 18 hours in a school week.

# data[].attributes.body
Certain jobs are deemed too dangerous for minors to perform. These include operating heavy machinery, mining, and roofing. The Department of Labor maintains a list of hazardous occupations that are off-limits to anyone under 18.

# data[].attributes.body
One of the key goals of child labor laws is to ensure that work does not interfere with a child's education. Schools and employers must work together to ensure that students can balance their work and educational responsibilities.

# data[].attributes.body
Most states require minors to obtain a work permit before starting a job. These permits are usually issued by schools and are designed to ensure that a child's work schedule will not negatively impact their education.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The .gov means it's official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site.

# data[].attributes.headline
Penalties for Violating Child Labor Laws

# data[].attributes.subject
Penalties for Violating Child Labor Laws

# data[].attributes.body
Employers who violate child labor laws can face hefty fines and legal action. It is crucial for employers to remain compliant with all regulations to avoid penalties.

# data[].attributes.body
If you suspect that a child labor law is being violated, it is important to report it to the proper authorities. The Department of Labor has a hotline and online resources to assist in reporting violations.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Spanish Version
The Wage and Hour Division is responsible for enforcing some of the nation's most comprehensive federal labor laws. The workers who are protected by these laws often want to know: How do we do what we do?

Many investigations are initiated by complaints, which are confidential. The name of the complainant, the nature of the complaint, and whether a complaint exists may not be disclosed. An employer cannot retaliate against a worker for exercising their rights, filing a complaint or cooperating with an investigation.

Complaint Process

1. Gather Information

Gather information you will need to file your complaint. While third-party complainants may not be able to provide all the information needed, the more information made available the better we can address concerns raised.

2. Decide How to File

Reach out to us online or call 1-866-487-9243.

3. We Work with You

We will work with you to answer your questions and determine whether an investigation is the best course of action.

Gather information you will need to file your complaint with us.

Learn more about the investigation process and the laws we cover.

Frequently asked questions and answers about filing a complaint with WHD.

In addition to complaints, we select certain types of businesses or industries for investigation. We target low-wage industries, for example, because of high rates of violations or egregious violations, the employment of vulnerable workers, or rapid changes in an industry, such as growth or decline.

Here's a breakdown of our typical investigation processes, regardless of whether the investigation starts from a complaint or an agency-initiated investigation:

Investigation Process

1. Initial Conference

Our investigator holds an initial conference with the employer and/or the employer's representative and tours the employer's establishment.

2. Conducting Interviews

Our investigator interviews employees in private.

3. Reviewing Records

The WHD investigator reviews the employer's records to determine compliance.

4. Final Conference

We hold a final conference with the employer and/or the employer's representative to discuss any violations found and how to correct them. If back wages are owed to employees, the investigator will request payment of back wages.

If you have questions or concerns, you can call us at 1-866-487-9243 or visit dol.gov/agencies/whd. You will be directed to the nearest WHD office for assistance. There are WHD offices throughout the country with trained professionals to help you.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Spanish Version The Wage and Hour Division is responsible for enforcing some of the nation's most comprehensive federal labor laws. The workers who are protected by these laws often want to know: How do we do what we do? Many investigations are initiated by complaints, which are confidential.