Harrisburg, PA – With school out for the summer and more teenagers beginning summer jobs, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) is reminding employers, parents, and young workers about the rights and responsibilities established under Pennsylvania’s Child Labor Act.
Pennsylvania’s Child Labor Act, enforced by L&I’s Bureau of Labor Law Compliance (BLLC), protects the health, safety, and well-being of workers under 18 by limiting the hours that may be worked, restricting hazardous job duties, requiring work permits, and setting clear conditions for lawful employment.
“A summer job is a meaningful first step into the workforce. It should help a young person build confidence, learn responsibility, and earn money — not put them in harm’s way,” said L&I Secretary Nancy A. Walker. “Governor Shapiro has made it clear that this Administration stands up for workers, particularly our youngest workers. Most employers want to follow the law, and L&I is here to provide guidance. But when employers cut corners or ignore basic protections for minors, we will take those violations seriously.”
In 2025, L&I investigated 1,265 child labor cases, collected $1.46 million in fines, and found 231 companies in violation of the Child Labor Act, which reflects the Shapiro Administration’s continued commitment to enforcing Pennsylvania’s labor laws and making sure young people can safely participate in the workforce.
Pennsylvania’s Child Labor Act includes specific rules for young workers based on age, type of work, school status, hours, breaks, work permits and other requirements. This information is intended as general guidance only, and employers, parents and young workers should review L&I’s Child Labor Act guidance for detailed information before a minor begins work.
Work Restrictions for Minors Under 14
Minors under 14 years of age may not be employed or permitted to work in any occupation, with some very limited exceptions. Under certain restrictions, caddies may be employed at the age of 12, news carriers at 11 years of age, and juvenile performers in the entertainment field.
Work Restrictions for 14- and 15-Year-Olds
When school is not in session, 14- and 15-year-olds may only work between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., with a maximum of eight hours a day and 40 hours a week.
Different standards may apply for some occupations, such as newspaper delivery, caddying, and some farm work.
Work Restrictions for 16- and 17-Year-Olds
When school is not in session, 16- and 17-year-olds may only work between 6 a.m. and 1 a.m., with a maximum of 10 hours a day and 48 hours a week.
Prohibited Occupations
Minors are prohibited from working in occupations deemed hazardous under state and federal law. These include jobs involving dangerous machinery, elevated workspaces, demolition, and other unsafe conditions.
Examples of prohibited tasks include:
- Serving or dispensing alcoholic beverages
- Crane operation
- Electrical installation or repair
- Excavation
- Roofing
- Woodworking with power tools
- Wrecking and demolition work
The above is provided for informational purposes only; comprehensive guidance about the Child Labor Act is available on L&I’s website.
Reporting Violations
L&I’s Bureau of Labor Law Compliance investigates potential violations of the Child Labor Act and other labor laws. Workers, parents, employers, school officials, co-workers, and members of the public may submit a complaint through the online form on L&I’s website.
For more information on the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, please visit the website or follow L&I on Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.
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