Sioux Empire Today

U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson has introduced the Teenagers Earning Everyday Necessary Skills (TEENS) Act, aimed at expanding work opportunities for 14- and 15-year-olds. Under current law, teenagers in this age group are restricted from working past 7 PM during school months and are limited to 18 hours of work per week.

Johnson, who held various jobs as a teenager, argues that the existing restrictions are outdated. "Kids are allowed to play video games all hours of the night, but current law tells them if they want to work past 7:00 PM, they can’t do that," he said. Johnson emphasized the importance of allowing teenagers and their parents to decide on suitable work hours.

Nathan Sanderson, Executive Director of the South Dakota Retailers Association, supported Johnson's initiative by highlighting the benefits of early work experiences. "As the father of a teenager, I’ve seen firsthand how work experiences build confidence, develop new skills, instill responsibility, and create a sense of pride in a job well done," Sanderson stated.

Rodney Davis from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce noted ongoing workforce shortages and expressed support for the TEENS Act. He remarked that it offers "employers greater workforce flexibility" while providing teenagers with valuable real-world experience.

Sean Kennedy from the National Restaurant Association also endorsed the bill. He pointed out that nearly half of U.S. adults had their first job in restaurants and said that extending work opportunities for teens would help address workforce challenges in the industry.

The TEENS Act proposes two main changes: allowing 14- and 15-year-olds to work until 9 PM year-round and increasing their weekly working hours from 18 to 24 during school weeks. The bill is co-sponsored by Representatives Troy Nehls and Tracey Mann.