Find Your State Partners

There are agencies and organizations in many states, and on a national level, that play a role in protecting and educating working teens. They often have materials and information available.

Your State’s Department Of Labor

Enforces state child labor laws and state health and safety regulations, including wage and hour, workers’ compensation, and occupational safety and health divisions. Most can provide information on the laws, data on injuries and labor law violations, and sometimes funding for special projects.

  • Locate your state’s Department of Labor contacts. (U.S. Department of Labor)
  • Find child labor law factsheets for many states. (YouthRules)
  • Locate your state’s OSHA plan (in 23 states), or the federal OSHA regional office that covers your state. (OSHA)
  • Locate teen safety initiatives in many state Departments of Labor. (Federal OSHA – Young Workers)

Your State’s Department Of Education

May oversee school-based work experience programs, vocational and technical education programs, and the issuing of work permits. Most can provide information to teachers, schools, and students.

Your State’s Department Of Health

May have surveillance data on work injuries, information about medical care, and educational materials on health and safety issues, including injury prevention, maternal and child health, and occupational health programs.

The Young Worker Health And Safety Network

A subcommittee of the American Public Health Association, the network has members throughout the U. S. who are health and safety researchers, educators, and advocates.

Committees For Occupational Safety And Health (COSHs)

May also be a resource or advocate for young worker health and safety.

  • Find a list of COSH organizations nationwide. (COSH)

Unions

May be especially valuable for addressing safety in particular industries. While not every union is an affiliate of the AFL-CIO, it is a good national resource for locating unions in your area.