Protect minors, reconsider immigrant workforce policies in Florida

Florida's move to fill workforce gaps left by deported immigrant workers with child labor is misguided and exploitative. Loosening child labor laws to allow minors as young as 14 to work unlimited hours, even overnight on school nights without breaks, undermines their wellbeing and right to education. Children are not a replaceable workforce - they have distinct developmental needs that must be prioritized over economic interests. Rather than subject young people to potentially hazardous working conditions, the state should reconsider its hardline stance on immigration enforcement that is creating these labor shortages. A more humane and sustainable approach would be to provide pathways for immigrant workers to fill essential roles legally and safely. Deporting those who contribute vital labor is ultimately detrimental to Florida's economy and industries. Protecting minors from exploitation while recognizing the value of immigrant workers are not opposing goals. Both can be achieved through reasonable policies that uphold human rights and dignity. I urge you to reject proposals that compromise child welfare for corporate interests and revisit immigration policies driving this misguided "solution." Young Floridians deserve to be students, not replacement workers.