No, child labor under 14 is illegal in Texas under both federal and state law. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) prohibit employment for minors under 14, with narrow exceptions for agricultural or family-owned businesses. Violations trigger penalties, including fines and business sanctions.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Texas
- FLSA Exemptions: The FLSA bars employment for children under 14 except in non-hazardous agricultural work or family-run enterprises, with parental consent. Texas aligns with these federal limits, reinforcing strict compliance.
- TWC Enforcement: The Texas Workforce Commission actively monitors compliance, requiring employers to verify age via birth certificates or school records before hiring minors. Failure to comply risks fines up to $10,000 per violation.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: New federal regulations, effective 2026, will further restrict agricultural child labor, tightening Texas’ enforcement. Employers must prepare for stricter documentation and parental consent requirements.
Texas employers must adhere to both federal and state mandates, ensuring no minors under 14 are employed outside permitted exceptions. Consult the TWC’s Child Labor Law Guide for updated requirements.