Florida’s state legislature is considering a bill that would ease child labor restrictions to address labor shortages in low-wage jobs. The bill, which advanced in the Senate, would allow children as young as 14 to work overnight shifts on school days, lifting current restrictions that prevent teens from working before 6:30 a.m. or after 11 p.m. The proposed changes aim to help businesses facing worker shortages due to the state’s crackdown on undocumented immigration.

Governor Ron DeSantis supports the bill, arguing that teenagers should be able to fill jobs traditionally held by undocumented workers, including positions in resorts and other industries. The bill also proposes allowing homeschooled teens to work at any hour, and eliminating meal break requirements for workers aged 16 and 17.

Florida’s push to loosen child labor protections follows a law passed in 2023 requiring businesses to verify the immigration status of employees, leading to a reduction in the number of undocumented workers. Critics, however, warn that these policies could increase inflation and labor shortages. Child labor violations in Florida have nearly tripled in recent years, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.