Worker Rights

Biggest child labor stories of 2011

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Young boy working in a field For those fighting for the cause of child labor, 2011 was a year of highs and lows, bringing some much needed attention to serious child labor problems in the supply chains of some of the world’s largest companies, but also seeing a disturbing move in a few states to roll back long-standing child labor protections and a much-publicized attack on child labor laws by a presidential candidate. The Child Labor Coalition has compiled a list of 2011's biggest stories.

Working more than 20 hours a week is a bad idea for teens

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These days, being a teenager isn’t easy. Teens’ overburdened schedules often include juggling afterschool activities, sports practice, and homework, which combined with working part time for extra spending money or to contribute to household expenses, leaves many teens feeling overworked, stressed, and stretched to the limit.

State child labor laws under attack

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States turning back clock on child labor A century ago, the National Consumers League helped write and enact the first child labor laws in states across the country. Today, advocates are dismayed at efforts in two states to roll back protections for working youth.