SundayJuly 27, 2025

Iowa’s youth labor law leaves small businesses and teen workers in hot water

By: Annie Smith Barkalow|August 13, 2024
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    • Savannah Dixon, 17, reaches for some fried chicken with a pair of tongs. Ms. Dixon has worked at Sugapeach Chicken & Fish Fry for two years. CREDIT ANNIE SMITH BARKALOW

    Savannah Dixon, 17, reaches for some fried chicken with a pair of tongs. Ms. Dixon has worked at Sugapeach Chicken & Fish Fry for two years. CREDIT ANNIE SMITH BARKALOW

    An Iowa bill meant to expand employment opportunities has backfired on the businesses it aimed to help, leaving many with exorbitant fines and teen employees open to potential exploitation.

    Last year, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds passed Senate File 542, a bill relating to youth employment that repealed previous restrictions placed on hours and duties.

    Under the new law, 14 and 15-year olds can work until 9 p.m.…

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