The resolution adopted by the Ohio General Assembly urges Congress to amend the Fair Labor Standards Act to permit individuals under 16 years of age to work between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. during the school year, provided they have parental or guardian approval. This request arises from the significant job losses and high unemployment rates caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which have led to a labor shortage that continues to affect businesses. By allowing younger workers to fill these positions during the school year, businesses could better meet their operational needs and potentially return to regular hours of operation.
The resolution highlights the importance of employing teenagers in the workforce, as they represent a growing segment of the labor market. It emphasizes that local economic growth is fostered when more individuals are employed, as they contribute to the economy by spending their earnings on goods and services. The resolution concludes with a directive for the Clerk of the Senate to send copies of the resolution to relevant congressional leaders and the Ohio media, advocating for the proposed changes to support both young workers and local businesses.