In several states, there have been considerations for legislatures to relax child labor restriction laws. For instance, in Arkansas, there is a proposal to remove work permit requirements for people under 16, and in Iowa, there is a push to allow teenage apprentices in off-limit workplace like factories. As employers have been struggling to fill job postings amidst a tight labor market, businesses have argued in support for these proposals. However, these bills have received considerable opposition from labor leaders and worker advocates who claim that it could result in more violations of illegal child employment.
See "Tensions grow as some US states consider easing child labor laws to help businesses fill job positions", Chris Marr and Rebecca Rainey , Bloomberg Law, March 20, 2023