US Child Labor Violations Surge by 88%, Uncovering Alarming Trend

In fiscal year 2023, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) identified 5,792 minors employed in violation of child labor laws, marking an 88% increase since 2019. This surge represents the highest level of child labor violations in nearly two decades.

Experts attribute this alarming rise to several factors, including labor shortages, economic pressures, and an influx of unaccompanied minors. The post-pandemic economic recovery has led to tight labor markets, especially in lower-paying service sectors, prompting employers to hire more minors. Additionally, inflation and economic hardships have compelled more young individuals to seek employment to support their families. The arrival of unaccompanied minors into the U.S. has also increased the pool of vulnerable youth susceptible to exploitation.

Major meat processing companies have faced significant allegations and legal actions related to child labor violations. In January 2025, Perdue Farms agreed to pay over $4 million in restitution after the DOL found minors working in hazardous roles at its Virginia plant. These roles involved operating dangerous equipment such as electric knives and heat-sealing presses. Perdue also agreed to a $150,000 civil penalty and committed to enhanced compliance measures. Similarly, JBS USA entered into a $4 million agreement to support individuals affected by child labor violations. Investigations revealed that third-party contractors hired by JBS employed minors in hazardous roles across facilities in multiple states. As part of the agreement, JBS committed to appointing a child labor compliance specialist and implementing policy reviews. In February 2023, Packers Sanitation Services Inc. (PSSI) was fined $1.5 million for employing over 100 minors in hazardous jobs at 13 meatpacking plants across eight states. The minors, some as young as 13, were found cleaning equipment such as bone saws and using caustic chemicals during overnight shifts.

In response to the rise in violations, the DOL has intensified enforcement efforts. In February 2023, the department announced the formation of an interagency task force to combat exploitative child labor, involving departments such as Health and Human Services and Agriculture. The DOL has also advocated for increasing the maximum civil monetary penalty for child labor violations, currently set at $15,138 per child, arguing that this amount is insufficient to deter major profitable companies.

While federal efforts aim to strengthen child labor protections, some states have moved to relax regulations. Since 2021, ten states with Republican-controlled legislatures have introduced bills to loosen regulations around when and where minors can work.

The increase in child labor violations has profound societal implications. Minors working long hours, especially in hazardous conditions, may experience disruptions in their education, affecting their long-term prospects. Engaging in hazardous work exposes minors to physical injuries and long-term health issues. The exploitation of child labor often affects marginalized communities, exacerbating existing economic disparities.

Historically, child labor in the U.S. saw a significant decline following the establishment of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in 1938. However, the recent uptick in violations indicates a reversal of this trend, necessitating renewed focus and action.

In fiscal year 2024, the DOL concluded 736 investigations that found child labor violations, a 23% decrease from the previous year. The department found 4,030 children employed in violation of the law, a 31% increase since 2019, and assessed more than $15.1 million in penalties, an 89% increase from the previous year.

These developments underscore a troubling trend in child labor practices within the United States, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to address and prevent child labor violations.