Children Don't Belong on Tobacco Farms Act

# Children Don't Belong on Tobacco Farms Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would strengthen federal protections for children working on tobacco farms. Currently, tobacco farming is exempt from certain child labor restrictions that apply to other agricultural work, allowing children as young as 12 to work in tobacco fields under federal law. This bill would eliminate that exemption and apply standard child labor protections to tobacco farming, similar to rules governing other hazardous agricultural jobs. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects children who work on tobacco farms and their families, as well as tobacco farming operations.

It would also impact state labor enforcement agencies responsible for overseeing child labor laws. While the exact number of children working on tobacco farms isn't specified in this summary, advocates argue the change is necessary due to health risks from nicotine exposure and other hazards in tobacco agriculture. **Current Status** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. Like most bills, it would need to pass committee review, Senate floor debate, and House approval before reaching the President's desk.