(COLUMBUS) - Ohio lawmakers are weighing a proposal that would allow 14- and 15-year-olds to work later on school nights with a parent's permission. Senate Bill 50 -- approved by both chambers of the Legislature -- would push the cutoff for work during the school year from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., while keeping overall hours the same. Supporters argue the change could help ease workforce shortages and give teens more opportunities to gain job experience. Jared Weiser, state director of the National Federation of Independent Business in Ohio, described the bill as a "reasonable and practical" step toward addressing employment gaps.
Critics caution that extending work hours could heighten the risk of child labor violations, workplace injuries, and negative effects on students' sleep and school performance. Jamie Shumaker of the Central Ohio Labor Council pointed to federal data showing a 150% rise in child labor violations in the Midwest from 2018 to 2023. The proposal would still need federal approval because national labor law currently prohibits minors under 16 from working past 7 p.m. on school nights. Lawmakers are also considering related measures, including the Clock Out Kids Act -- which would impose fines for child labor violations -- and the Kid Influencer Protection Act, designed to safeguard minors working in entertainment or online spaces. Senate Bill 50 now awaits action from Governor Mike DeWine, who has until Monday to sign or veto it.