House approves measure to double penalties for child labor law violations

Rep. Regina Young March 25, 2025 | 10:46 AM

HARRISBURG, March 24 – Today, the PA House of Representatives approved legislation introduced by state Rep. Regina Young, D-Phila./Delaware, that would increase the fines for violations of the state child labor law.

As state legislatures nationwide are weakening their child labor laws, H.B. 118 would ensure that Pennsylvania employers are held accountable for exploiting children by doubling the penalties for a first offense to $1,000, and $3,000 for each subsequent offense.

“Our highest duty as legislators should be to protect our most vulnerable people who are unable to protect themselves, especially our children,” said Young following the vote. “Child labor violations are still too common in our state, with too many employers chalking it up to ‘the cost of doing business.’ That is straight up exploitation and unacceptable as we should work to guide and mentor our young people toward gainful employment. These fines have remained unchanged for over a decade as violations increase, so it’s clear they are an insufficient disincentive. Exploitation of children in any circumstance should be abhorrent to all Pennsylvanians. I’m hopeful that these doubled penalties will act as a stronger deterrent to the illegal employment of Pennsylvania’s children.”

The bill was approved in the House by a 117-85 vote and now heads to the state Senate for its consideration.

The 185th Legislative District is comprised of communities in South and Southwest Philadelphia, along with Tinicum Township and Colwyn Borough in Delaware County.