Child Labor Law regulates employment of workers under 16 years of age. The law protects children by:Learn about when children can start working, work permits, and the restrictions on the hours and types of work children can do. It is illegal to employ a child under 14 except under specific circumstances. Minors aged 14 or 15 may work, but not without first obtaining an Employment Certificate from their local high school or school administration office. The CLL covers minors under 16 years of age and is intended to provide "the greatest protection of a minor's wellbeing. This Illinois law enhances restrictions on the employment of minors. Indeed, the Act imposes certain new civil and criminal penalties on violating employers. On July 30, 2024, Illinois enacted SB3646 to repeal and replace the existing child labor law. On August 7, 2023, the Illinois Department of Labor filed emergency rules and proposed permanent rules to implement House Bill 2862 (Public Act 1030437).