House Passes Bill to Preserve Child Labor on Family Farms

By CnAgri2012-07-25 19:16:29 Print

Although the U.S. Department of Labor withdrew its proposed rule regarding youth in agriculture back in April, Congressman Tom Latham introduced the Preserving America's Family Farm Act, which protects against these threats by preserving the ability of youth to gain training and education by working on the farm. The measure passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a voice vote on July 24.

Farm groups say the news is a victory for the agricultural sector. National Cattlemen's Beef Association President J.D. Alexander said the administration's proposed rule could have restricted, and in some instances totally prevented, America's youth from working on family farms and ranches.

"This is a victory for farm and ranch families throughout the country. This ridiculous rule would have prevented the next generation of farmers and ranchers from acquiring skills and passion for this very noble profession. It also would have restricted urban kids from working on farms and acquiring a solid work ethic and enthusiasm for this very diverse industry," said Alexander. "We absolutely have to have a sensible regulatory environment in Washington, D.C. We should not have to worry about negligent rules being promulgated by out-of-touch regulatory agencies. It is unfortunate that we need legislation to prevent these nonsensical regulations, but with this administration's track record, it is necessary to trust but verify."

H.R. 4157 prohibits the Secretary of Labor from finalizing or enforcing its previously proposed rule, which would have prevented youth from engaging in day-to-day farm and ranch activities. Alexander said the administration抯 action to withdraw the rule showcases the importance of farm and ranch families being engaged in decisions being made inside the Beltway. He said this legislation goes a step further and ensures this rule does not resurface in the future.

The legislation was also introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.).