No, child labor under age 14 is not legal in Nebraska. State law prohibits employment for children under 14, except in limited exemptions like agricultural work with parental consent or newspaper delivery. Violations trigger penalties under Nebraska’s Wage and Hour Act, enforced by the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL). Federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) aligns with this prohibition, reinforcing strict compliance.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Nebraska
- Age Restriction: Employment under age 14 is strictly prohibited, with no general work permits issued. Exemptions require NDOL approval for specific sectors like entertainment or agriculture.
- Parental Consent & Hours: Minors aged 14–15 may work limited hours (e.g., 3 hours on school days) only with parental consent, per Nebraska Revised Statute § 48-211.
- 2026 Compliance Shift: Nebraska’s 2026 legislative updates tighten oversight, mandating digital verification of age for all minors in employment, aligning with NDOL’s new audit protocols.
Enforcement falls under the NDOL’s Wage and Hour Division, which conducts routine inspections and imposes fines up to $1,000 per violation for illegal child labor. Employers must maintain accurate records of minors’ ages and work schedules to avoid liability. Federal and state laws operate in tandem, leaving no ambiguity for employers in Nebraska.