WILKES-BARRE — With school breaks nearing and more teens seeking summer jobs, Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) Secretary Nancy A. Walker this week reminded employers, parents and young workers about the rights and protections for teenage employees established under the Pennsylvania Child Labor Act.
“As we head into the summer hiring season, it’s important that employers, parents and young workers understand their rights and responsibilities under Pennsylvania’s Child Labor Act,” said Secretary Walker. “Protecting the health and safety of our young workers is essential — not only to their well-being but also to ensuring that their early employment experiences are positive. Our goal at L&I is to educate and support employers in complying with the law, while continuing to take violations seriously when they occur.”
From the beginning of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s term through Jan. 1, 2025, L&I has investigated 940 complaints of child labor law violations, resulting in enforcement action against 347 employers and more than $2.5 million in fines collected.
Except for minors who work in newspaper delivery, no minors may work more than six consecutive days. Full- or part-time minors must be paid at least minimum wage, which is currently $7.25 per hour.
Under-14 work restrictions
Children under age 14 may only work under certain circumstances, including on a family farm or in domestic service, such as babysitting, or performing yard work or household chores. Employment as caddies, newspaper carriers and — with special permits — entertainment performers may also be permissible.
14-15-year-olds work restrictions
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. For some occupations, such as newspaper delivery, caddies and some farm work, different standards may apply.
When school is in session, 14- and 15-year-olds may only work between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. with a maximum of three hours a day on school days and 18 hours per school week (Monday through Friday), and a maximum of eight hours per day on weekends. This work must not interfere with school attendance.
16-17-year-olds work restrictions
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. Employers may not compel minors in this age group to work beyond 44 hours a week.
When school is in session, 16- and 17-year-olds may only work between 6 a.m. and 12 a.m. with a maximum of eight hours a day and 28 hours per school week (Monday through Friday). This work must not interfere with school attendance.
Prohibited occupations
Minors are prohibited from working in occupations deemed hazardous under state and federal law. These include any jobs involving dangerous machinery, elevated work spaces, demolition and more.
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.
Rep. Meuser highlights 9th District businesses at showcase
U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Dallas, this week invited two standout businesses from Pennsylvania’s 9th Congressional District — Masser Family of Companies and C2G Energy Solutions — to the House Small Business Committee’s 2nd Annual Small Business Showcase.
The event highlighted innovative small businesses nationwide, featuring remarks from Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler.
The Masser Family of Companies, based in Sacramento, Pennsylvania, is an eighth-generation, family-owned agricultural enterprise. As Pennsylvania’s largest potato grower and distributor, Masser’s operations span farming, processing and logistics.
Julie Masser Ballay, CFO and VP, has modernized the company while upholding its commitment to the community. She previously testified before the Small Business Committee on the importance of pro-growth tax policies like the R&D credit.
C2G Energy Solutions, based in Montrose, leads in sustainable water and waste management for the energy industry. Co-founders Adam Locke and Dallas resident Jesse Bonnice guide C2G in developing advanced technologies to upcycle industrial waste streams and minimize environmental impact. Their Shaskas Facility exemplifies this with on-site wastewater treatment and direct natural gas supply infrastructure.
“These companies are perfect examples of what happens when you pair entrepreneurial spirit with strong community values,” said Rep. Meuser. “Masser has built an operation that honors tradition while embracing innovation—and they’ve done it in Schuylkill County. C2G is pioneering a process to produce rare minerals from a previously overlooked source — turning what was once considered waste into a valuable asset. These kinds of businesses fuel our economy and prove that rural America is not just participating in the future — we’re leading it.”
AG Sunday issues warning about counterfeit GLP-1 drugs
Attorney General Dave Sunday this week urged Pennsylvanians who are taking GLP-1 drugs to be sure they are getting those drugs from licensed pharmacies — as supplies have not kept pace with an overwhelming consumer demand, prompting the emergence of a counterfeit market for the diabetes control and weight-loss drugs.
Attorney General Sunday recently urged the Food and Drug Administration, in a multi-state coalition letter, to crack down on the counterfeit drugs, often originating from foreign countries.
Now, as people and families look forward to holidays, beach vacations, and time in the sun, we encourage Pennsylvanians to prioritize their health over efforts to lose a few more pounds.
“These counterfeit products flooding the market can cause harm, and I strongly advise anyone shopping for GLP-1 drugs to use extreme caution,” Attorney General Sunday said.
Common weight loss and diabetes management drugs, known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, have become very popular nationwide, sold as Mounjaro, Zepbound, Ozempic, and Wegovy.