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 provisions include increasing minimum fines for knowing violations to $500 for an initial offense and $1,000 for subsequent offenses. It also categorizes certain violations as third-degree crimes, with minimum fines of $1,000 for employing unregistered minors or violating work hour restrictions during school sessions. Additionally, if a minor suffers an injury or death while employed in violation of the law, the employer could face second-degree crime charges 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.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that employers acknowledge and affirm their understanding of the child labor law requirements before being authorized to employ minors. It also imposes a three-year ban on employing minors for those who fail to obtain the necessary registration or who employ minors during a suspension period. The bill includes provisions against retaliatory actions taken by employers against employees who report violations, classifying such actions as disorderly persons offenses with specified fines and penalties. Overall, the legislation seeks to protect 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