The bill amends Section 25-8-59 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to increase civil and criminal penalties for employers who violate child labor laws. Key changes include the insertion of new penalties, such as a civil penalty of not less than $300 for certain violations and an increase in penalties for more serious violations from $1,000 to a range of $5,000 to $10,000. Additionally, the bill specifies that employers may face separate penalties for each affected employee and allows for multiple penalties for violations concerning the same employee. The language also clarifies the process for notifying employers of penalties and their rights to contest them.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new classifications for misdemeanors and felonies related to violations that result in serious physical injury or death of a minor, changing the classification from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class B felony or Class C felony for repeat offenders. The bill is designed to enhance enforcement of child labor laws and is set to take effect on October 1, 2024. It is also noted that while the bill may require increased local expenditures, it is exempt from further requirements under Section 111.05 of the Alabama Constitution due to its focus on defining or amending crimes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 25-8-59, 25-8-59
Engrossed: 25-8-59, 25-8-59
Enrolled: 25-8-59, 25-8-59