Missouri State Senator Cunningham Has An Idea!

SB 222 – This act modifies the child labor laws. It eliminates the prohibition on employment of children under age fourteen. Restrictions on the number of hours and restrictions on when a child may work during the day are also removed. It also repeals the requirement that a child ages fourteen or fifteen obtain a work certificate or work permit in order to be employed. Children under sixteen will also be allowed to work in any capacity in a motel, resort or hotel where sleeping accommodations are furnished. It also removes the authority of the director of the Division of Labor Standards to inspect employers who employ children and to require them to keep certain records for children they employ. It also repeals the presumption that the presence of a child in a workplace is evidence of employment.

But that's just the summary. Let's look at some specifics!

9. No child shall be required to work with an animal which a reasonable person would regard as dangerous in the same circumstances, unless an animal trainer or handler qualified by training and experience is present.

Oh, well, as long as there's a trainer present!

10. No child shall be required to perform a stunt without prior consultation with the child, the child's parent, legal custodian or guardian and
... When any unusual physical, athletic or acrobatic activity, stunts, special effects or other potentially hazardous activity involving a child is to be done, the employer shall have available a person qualified to administer medical assistance on an emergency basis and transportation to the nearest medical facility providing emergency services. First-aid kits shall always be available at a child's place of employment.

First aid kits are a good idea.

8. No child shall be required to work in a situation which places the child in a clear and present danger to life or limb. If a child believes he or she is in such a dangerous situation, after discussing the matter with his or her parent, legal custodian, guardian or designated person and the employer, the child shall not be required to perform in such situation, regardless of the validity or reasonableness of the child's belief.

That actually makes sense! Good job!

4 thoughts on “Missouri State Senator Cunningham Has An Idea!

  1. The Modesto Kid

    What, so the kid could just *say* he feels like he’s in danger and get out of earning his daily bread by the sweat of his brow like our Holy Father intended? I don’t *think* so! That’s a huge loophole!

  2. cleek

    a loophole and a terrible way to teach Jr. about commitment and responsibility. if he didn’t want to work 40 hours a week sorting trash, he shouldn’t have been born to parents who wanted him to. but since he was, he can’t rightly back out of his obligation just because he doesn’t “want to”. that’s just irresponsible !

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