This bill amends the child labor laws established by Initiated Act 1 of 1914 in Arkansas, focusing on creating an educational alternative to civil penalties for certain violations. It recognizes the importance of part-time work for teenagers while emphasizing the state's responsibility to protect children from hazardous work environments and ensure that their education is not compromised. The bill highlights a significant increase in child labor violations and financial penalties in recent years, underscoring the need for better understanding of legal requirements related to child labor.

Key provisions include the establishment of an educational module that can be completed by first-time violators of child labor laws to waive civil penalties. The module will cover the Fair Labor Standards Act and state regulations regarding the employment of children under sixteen. Additionally, the bill mandates that schools post educational signage about child labor laws in a youth-friendly format, ensuring that the information is accessible in multiple languages. This initiative aims to enhance awareness and compliance with child labor regulations among employers, parents, and teenagers.

Statutes affected:
HB 1996: 11-6-103(a)