Wisconsin Labor Leaders Wary Despite Recent Policy Win for Young Workers

 

Also read :Albanese Govt Proposes Phased Rollout of Aged Care Worker Pay Rise

Also read :Germany’s Airport Security Union and Employers Forge Wage Deal

Wisconsin labor leaders have voiced ongoing concerns about protecting young workers, despite a recent policy win. Governor Tony Evers recently vetoed a bill that would have expanded exemptions from work permit requirements for those under 18. This veto maintained important protections, according to advocates.

Also read :The Introduction Of Carer's Leave In The UK

However, Stephanie Bloomingdale, president of the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO, warns that some employers continue pushing to allow teenage employment with insufficient oversight. While progress was made in past decades regarding work hazards, there are efforts to roll back safeguards for younger workers.

Bloomingdale notes similar rollbacks have passed in a dozen other states. She worries Wisconsin may see future bills undermining youth protections. Additionally, U.S. Labor Department reports show an 83% rise in penalties for violations impacting young workers.

Also read :Indian Workers Deploy To Israel Amidst Conflict To Alleviate Labor Shortages

Supporters argued the vetoed bill aimed to reduce family red tape, but Bloomingdale counters it would have removed a key layer of safeguarding. She emphasizes the importance of balancing work with education and allowing sufficient sleep/activity time for children.

In summary, while a bill weakening protections was vetoed, labor advocates remain vigilant given ongoing industry pushes and worries about future legislative proposals that could compromise young workers' well-being.