Florida lawmakers are considering a bill that would significantly alter the state’s child labor laws, allowing teenagers to work longer hours. Senate Bill 918, introduced by Sen. Jay Collins, R-Tampa, proposes removing existing restrictions on the number of hours and days that 16- and 17-year-olds can work. Additionally, the bill seeks to eliminate hour and day restrictions for 14- and 15-year-olds who have graduated from high school or are enrolled in home or virtual schooling.
Under current Florida law, 16- and 17-year-olds are limited to working no more than eight hours on school nights and 30 hours per week during the school year. SB 918 would remove these limitations, allowing employers to schedule teens for unlimited hours and days without mandated breaks. The bill also removes the Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s authority to grant waivers for these restrictions, effectively eliminating the need for such waivers altogether.
Proponents of the bill argue that it aligns Florida’s laws with federal standards and provides families with greater flexibility.
“This is a parental rights thing. Parents know their kids best,” Collins said, emphasizing that most teen jobs are in safe environments like grocery stores.
However, the proposal has faced criticism from various quarters. Opponents have expressed concerns about potential exploitation of young workers and the impact on their education and well-being. Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith, D-Orlando, warned that the bill could allow employers to pressure teens into working excessive hours, potentially leading to sleep deprivation and academic decline. Sen. Tracie Davis, D-Jacksonville, echoed these concerns, stating that the legislation “takes away basic safeguards” for children.
A Tallahassee who requested to remain anonymous is the mother of two teenagers. She said she’s deeply uncomfortable with the direction of the bill.
“It’s already hard getting them to balance school and activities. If this passes, they could be working 10-hour shifts on school nights just to make a little extra cash,” she said. “I’m not against them having jobs, but there has to be a limit. Their education and rest matter.”
The bill passed the Senate Commerce and Tourism Committee with a narrow 5-4 vote and is now under consideration in the Regulated Industries Committee. If enacted, the changes would take effect on July 1.
As the debate continues, stakeholders on both sides are closely monitoring the bill’s progress, weighing the balance between workforce needs and the protection of young workers’ rights and education.