This bill aims to enhance the enforcement of New Jersey's child labor laws by introducing stricter penalties for violations and establishing clearer guidelines for employers. Key amendments include increasing minimum fines for knowingly violating the child labor law to $500 for an initial offense and $1,000 for subsequent offenses. Additionally, employing a minor who is not registered or authorized, or who works during prohibited times or in hazardous conditions, will be classified as a third-degree crime with minimum fines of $1,000 for initial violations. If a minor suffers an injury or death while employed in violation of these laws, the employer could face a second-degree crime charge with a minimum fine of $4,000. Employers convicted of these crimes will have their registration to employ minors suspended for one to two years, depending on the severity of the offense.

The bill also introduces provisions to protect employees from retaliation for reporting violations of the child labor law. Employers who retaliate against employees for making complaints or participating in investigations will be guilty of a disorderly persons offense, facing fines and potential imprisonment. They will also be required to reinstate any wrongfully discharged employees and compensate them for lost wages, with liquidated damages of up to 200% of the wages due. Furthermore, the bill mandates that employers acknowledge and affirm their understanding of the child labor law requirements before being authorized to employ minors, with strict consequences for non-compliance. Overall, the legislation seeks to ensure the welfare of working minors by preventing excessive or hazardous work that could interfere with their education and well-being.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:2-21.19