DOL Eyes Relaxed Youth Work-Hour Rules While Enforcement Continues
NewsData.io · United States · Oct 8, 2026
The U.S. Department of Labor is considering a proposed rulemaking to loosen federal work-hour restrictions for 14- and 15-year-olds as a deregulatory action, while simultaneously continuing enforcement of existing child labor rules. In 2026, DOL announced penalties against restaurant operators in South Carolina, Colorado, Texas, and Tennessee for violations including minors working impermissible hours and performing hazardous tasks. Staffing firms and employers placing teenage workers should maintain current compliance postures and monitor any rulemaking developments, noting that more protective state laws may limit flexibility even if federal rules are relaxed.
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