The House Joint Resolution No. 48 ratifies a proposed amendment to the U.S. Constitution that grants Congress the authority to regulate child labor for individuals under the age of 18. This amendment, originally proposed by Congress in 1924, allows Congress to limit, regulate, and prohibit child labor while ensuring that state powers remain intact, except where state laws must be suspended to enforce federal legislation. The resolution also notes that Connecticut previously rejected this amendment in 1925, and the current General Assembly aims to rectify that decision.
As of now, 28 states have ratified the amendment, with 10 more needed for it to become valid. The resolution mandates that the Governor of Connecticut send certified copies to key federal officials, including the President and members of Congress. Importantly, the resolution indicates that there will be no fiscal impact on the state or municipalities as a result of this ratification. The resolution is effective upon passage and was reported favorably by the Government Administration and Elections Committee.