Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a bill on May 26 that loosens child labor laws by allowing under 18-year-olds to work longer hours on school nights and in expanded roles, including serving alcohol in bars and restaurants.
The Republican governor signed Senate File 542 after it was approved by the Legislature earlier in May with only Republican support.
Reynolds said Iowa is joining 20 other states in providing “tailored, common sense labor provisions” that let minors develop skills in the workforce.
“In Iowa, we understand there is dignity in work and we pride ourselves on our strong work ethic,” Reynolds said in a news release. “Instilling those values in the next generation and providing opportunities for young adults to earn and save to build a better life should be available.”…