Hannah Halbert, Executive Director of Policy Matters Ohio, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Ohio Senate Bill 50 (SB50), a controversial piece of legislation in the Buckeye State. Halbert discussed the real-world impacts this bill could have on Ohio teens, employers and the broader community, highlighting what advocates and lawmakers are saying as Gov. Mike DeWine’s decision looms.
Halbert began by explaining precisely what SB50 would change. The bill would extend the window for 14- and 15-year-olds to work until 9 p.m. on school nights, a significant shift from the current 7 p.m. limit. Moreover, instead of schools supervising and authorizing work permits, parents would be responsible for signing off on them. Halbert emphasized that these are not extra work hours overall but rather a deregulation of when and how young teens can work, making it easier for employers to schedule these youth for late shifts, which could disrupt schoolwork, extracurricular involvement and proper rest.
Halbert then addressed some of the arguments from SB50’s proponents. While backers of the bill claim it is a response to labor shortages and a way for teens to gain valuable work experience, Halbert challenged these justifications. She said that teens already have ample opportunity to work and that the real motive may be to tap into a cheaper labor force, since federal law allows employers to pay 14- and 15-year-olds less than Ohio’s minimum wage. Halbert also questioned claims about a labor shortage, pointing out recent trends in rising unemployment in the state and described the bill as a way to make young workers more easily exploitable, rather than resolving workforce challenges.
Finally, Halbert discussed the broader impact of SB50, including potential consequences for families and communities. Halbert shared that many Ohio parents and advocacy groups have voiced strong opposition, expressing concern that later work hours would disrupt academic performance and cut into extracurricular activities crucial for a child's healthy development. She also flagged the possibility of increased child labor law violations—as seen in other states that have loosened such rules—and warned employers of potential confusion, as they may face federal penalties. As Gov. DeWine faces pressure from both sides, Halbert said that Policy Matters Ohio is urging him to veto the bill, arguing that scaling back protections for young workers moves Ohio in the wrong direction.
For more on SB50 and its potential impact on the Ohio workforce, listen to the full episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast above.