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H.R. 3335: Children Don't Belong on Tobacco Farms Act

The bill titled "Children Don't Belong on Tobacco Farms Act" aims to amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. Its primary goal is to prohibit children under the age of eighteen from working in tobacco-related agriculture. The amendment specifies that any employment of children in this area would be classified as oppressive child labor.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The bill seeks to add a new restriction on the types of employment that minors can engage in, particularly emphasizing the dangers of working with tobacco.
It explicitly prohibits minors from having direct contact with tobacco plants or dried tobacco leaves.
The legislation revises existing language in the Fair Labor Standards Act to ensure the prohibition is clear and unambiguous.
In its revised form, the Act will treat employment in tobacco-related agriculture alongside other types of occupation already deemed unsuitable for minors.

Purpose of the Bill

The intent behind the bill is to enhance child labor protections, recognizing the potential health risks associated with tobacco work. This includes exposure to chemicals and other harmful substances present in tobacco farming that could negatively impact children's health and well-being.

Impact on Employment Regulations

If passed, this bill would require stricter enforcement of child labor laws regarding agricultural work specifically related to tobacco. This could lead to increased scrutiny of farms that employ young people and possibly penalties for non-compliance.

Public Awareness

The proposal also aims to raise awareness about the issues surrounding child labor in agriculture, particularly in the context of the tobacco industry. Advocates believe that removing children from this environment is crucial for their health and development.

Potential Benefits

Proponents of the bill argue that removing children from tobacco farms will contribute to a healthier workforce and protect young people from the dangers associated with toxic agricultural practices.