On April 1, 2025, the Minnesota State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 3153, a resolution aimed at reaffirming the state's ratification of the Child Labor Amendment to the United States Constitution. This legislative move comes in the context of a renewed national interest in child labor laws, particularly following discussions in various state legislatures over the past few years.

The bill highlights the historical backdrop of child labor in the United States, noting that widespread exploitation of children in the workforce was prevalent until the early 20th century. The resolution references the landmark Supreme Court case Hammer v. Dagenhart (1918), which ruled that Congress lacked the authority to regulate child labor, leading to the proposal of the Child Labor Amendment. This amendment, passed by Congress in 1924, grants Congress the power to limit and regulate labor for individuals under eighteen, sharing this authority with state legislatures.

Minnesota ratified the amendment in 1933, but since 1937, no additional states have followed suit. The resolution underscores the significance of the Child Labor Amendment, especially in light of the Supreme Court's later decision in United States v. Darby Lumber Co. (1941), which overturned the previous ruling and affirmed Congress's authority to regulate child labor.

The introduction of Senate Bill 3153 reflects a growing momentum for the amendment, with similar efforts noted in Hawaii and other states. The bill's proponents argue that reaffirming the amendment is crucial for protecting the rights of minors in the workforce, especially as discussions around child labor laws gain traction.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it may face debates regarding its implications for labor regulations and the role of state versus federal authority in protecting child workers. The resolution directs the Minnesota Secretary of State to disseminate copies of the memorial to key federal officials, including the President of the United States, signaling Minnesota's commitment to this important issue.

In summary, Senate Bill 3153 serves as a reaffirmation of Minnesota's historical stance on child labor and reflects a broader movement to address and regulate child labor practices in the contemporary context. The outcome of this resolution could have significant implications for future legislative efforts aimed at protecting children in the workforce across the nation.