Child labor law violations threaten the safety, health, and education of young workers. This guide explains who to contact, how to file a report, what information to include, and what to expect after a complaint is submitted. It covers federal protections under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and relevant state laws, along with practical steps for documenting concerns and seeking timely enforcement.
Understand What Constitutes a Violation
A violation occurs when a business employs a child in a manner prohibited by federal or state law. Under the FLSA, certain restrictions apply to age, hours, and types of work. For example, children under 14 generally may not work in most non-agricultural jobs, while older teens face limits on hazardous occupations and hours. State laws may add stricter rules or provide broader protections.
Common scenarios include unsafe work conditions, excessive hours for minors, or noncompliant payroll practices that conceal underage employment. If uncertainty exists about a specific job, agencies can review the work activities and determine compliance or violations. It is advisable to report suspected violations promptly to prevent harm to young workers.
Agencies To Contact
Several agencies handle child labor concerns in the United States, depending on the nature of the violation:
- Wage and Hour Division (WHD), U.S. Department of Labor – Enforces federal child labor provisions of the FLSA, including age, hours, and hazardous work restrictions.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – Handles safety-related concerns where workplace hazards may endanger minors, though WHD often addresses wage and hour violations.
- State Labor Departments – Enforce state child labor laws, which can complement federal standards or provide broader protections.
- Educational or Child Welfare Agencies – In cases involving school-aged children or social services concerns, these agencies may coordinate with labor authorities.
When in doubt, start with the federal WHD, which accepts complaints about a wide range of child labor issues and can direct the matter to the appropriate state or local authority if needed.
How To File A Report Online
Filing online is the fastest way to initiate an investigation. The U.S. Department of Labor’s WHD provides an online complaint form for wage and hour violations, including child labor issues.
- Visit the official WHD complaint portal and select “File a Wage and Hour Complaint.”
- Provide details about the employer, location, and the job activity in question.
- Describe the suspected age of the worker, hours worked, and any hazardous duties involved.
- Attach any supporting documents or evidence, such as photos, schedules, or pay stubs, if available.
Online submissions are typically followed by a case review, contact with the complainant for clarification, and potential site investigations.
What Information You Should Include
To help investigators assess and resolve the issue, include:
- Employer name, address, and contact information
- Worker’s age and date of birth, if known
- Specific job duties, schedules, and hours worked
- Dates of suspected violations and any patterns observed
- Any safety hazards or injuries reported
- Evidence such as payroll records, timesheets, or training materials
- Your contact information for follow-up, while noting confidentiality preferences
Providing precise, verifiable details accelerates investigations and reduces back-and-forth requests for information.
Confidentiality And Protection From Reprisal
Complaints are treated with confidentiality to protect the reporter and the worker. Retaliation against a person who files a complaint is prohibited under federal law in many cases, and state laws may offer additional protections. If retaliation occurs, report it promptly to the same agency or seek legal counsel. Investigators can take steps to shield confidentiality while pursuing enforcement actions.
After You File: What Happens Next
Once a complaint is submitted, the agency may contact the reporter for clarification and begin an inquiry, which can include employer interviews, records reviews, and on-site inspections. Investigators assess compliance with age, hours, and hazardous-occupation standards, as well as any wage issues. Outcomes may include corrective orders, penalties, or compliance actions directed at the employer. If violations are found, employers are often required to remedy conditions within a specified period.
Keep in mind that whistleblower protections apply in many cases, and the investigation process may take time. The agency will typically provide updates on the status or outcomes of the case and available remedies for affected workers.
Immediate Action Steps For Suspected Immediate Danger
If a child’s safety is in immediate danger, contact local authorities such as police or child protective services right away. For urgent violations, call the WHD or your state labor department’s hotline to request an urgent inspection or emergency intervention. Documenting the dangerous condition can support expedited action and protect workers from ongoing harm.
In non-emergency situations, gather as much information as possible and file a formal complaint through the appropriate federal or state agency. Timely reporting helps ensure faster enforcement and protection for minors in the workplace.