Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack today praised the passage of legislation that would stop the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) from finalizing the proposed rule that would limit the work children could perform on family farms. When the rule was originally proposed earlier this year, Loebsack personally met with the DOL officials to urge them to review Iowans' concerns while working to keep our children safe. Shortly after the meeting, DOL withdrew the proposed rule.
"Iowa farmers have a long and proud history of feeding their neighbors, state, country and the world," said Loebsack. "I heard from family farmers earlier this year about the possible negative effects of the rule and personally urged the Department of Labor to not move forward with it. I was pleased when the Department of Labor withdrew it. Today's bill takes another step to ensure Iowa's way of life is protected."
In addition to meeting with the DOL, Loebsack urged the Secretary of Labor to ensure Iowa farmers and families had the opportunity to be heard regarding these proposals and also urged the Department to reconsider the provisions relating to the parental exemption for children helping on the farm.
###
