labor lawAdivision of labor law center

I’ve been very interested in Child Labor laws as of late. While researching the major differences in the wages between the states, I noticed that the reporting and educational component of South Carolina’s government is outstanding. Specifically, I found that I was able to visit the Offices of Wages and Child Labor for South Carolina Web site and quickly find all of the resources that I need. It’s nice to see governments so visible and filled with resources online.

Basically, I learned that in South Carolina, state law requires employers that have five or more employees to notify each employee in writing when they are hired so that the hours and number of working hours can be agreed upon. This initial letter should also include information about the time and place of payment, deductions and insurance offers. Then, the employer must keep records of the names and addresses of each of the employees as well as the amount of wages paid.

When it comes to being a child, the State does allow children as young as 14 years old to work. In general, children under the age of 14 will not be authorized for employment, as it is considered to be oppressive child labor. However, children do have to comply with a separate set of labor laws that apply to the hours that a child can work and the types of employment that a child can have. As is the case in many states, there are some jobs that are considered hazardous, and therefore off limits, to children aged 14 and 15. These jobs include many agricultural and factory-oriented jobs.

It is important to note that in some cases, there are exceptions to the age restriction. For example children are able to work in film, theater, television and radio as well as on non-hazardous farm jobs. Additionally, if the establishment is 100% owned and operated by the parent of the minor, he or she can also work.