Effective January 1, 2025, the Child Labor Law of 2024 modernizes Illinois’ child labor regulations by repealing the existing statute and replacing it with an updated framework. The bill (SB 3646) sets standards for working conditions for children aged 15 and younger, including limiting work hours and updating the list of prohibited occupations.
Other key updates include added safety measures for minors working in certain industries, such as cannabis shops and adult facilities. The law introduces regulations for child influencers (who vlog or post content on online platforms), requiring compensation based on their participation in online content. The bill also updates the school certification process by:
- Requiring the issuing officer to consider the “health, welfare, and education” of the minor when assessing an employment certificate application, including consideration of past reports of death/injury of a minor at that workplace;
- Requiring a minor’s work permit to include the minor’s school schedule; and
- Clarifying the certification process for minors who are experiencing homelessness or who do not have a birth certificate.
Additionally, employers will now be required to report to the minor’s school if they are injured or killed at work.
Next Steps
Employers should become familiar with these changes and determine if it is necessary to adjust or implement new processes and procedures for minors in their workplace including the types of work assigned to minors and the scheduling of work hours for minors.
