Earlier this year the Department of Labor (DOL) proposed new child labor regulations applicable to agriculture. The proposed new rule, if adopted, would place new limitations on the ability of young people to work for pay on farms or ranches not owned solely by their parents and would effectively bar young workers, under 16, from working in most capacities in agriculture, especially around livestock, such as horses. The safety and well being of young workers are of paramount importance; however, this rule is overly broad, does not respect the traditional status of agriculture, and would sharply limit opportunities for young people to become involved in agriculture and with horses. More information on the proposed rule can be found here and the AHC comments on the rule can be found here.
The American Horse Council is urging all horse people to contact their Senators regarding this issue. For an easy way to find your elected officials, go to Congress.org, get a free account, and you will suddenly have easy access to letter writing regarding issues that are important to you!
Comments