Child Labor Is Now Legal in the US

In 1906, a Native American chief visited NYC. Asked about his surprise, he noted, "Little children working.

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Child labor, vital for early industrial America, exploited children due to cost, resistance, and simpler machinery.

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Child labor declined due to Progressive movement, labor unions, and legal changes, now widely seen as repulsive.

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Child labor resurgence alarms as lawmakers aim to weaken or repeal protections against child exploitation.

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US child labor up 37% (2015-2022). 14 states weakened work rules, hours, dangerous tasks, and youth wages.

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Iowa permits 14-year-olds in laundries, 16-year-olds in various labor, lifting restrictions on child labor laws.

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Wealthy backers fund FGA, Koch Foundation to weaken child labor laws across states, impacting California.

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Legislators offer weak excuses, claiming work will reduce screen time or empower parents, despite risks.

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