America's Hidden Child Labor Crisis Reaches Historic Levels
Child labor violations have surged 88% since 2019, with over 5,792 children found working illegally in 2023 alone. As states weaken protections and federal oversight fails, we're documenting violations across every industry while demanding comprehensive accountability.
5,792 Children found in documented violations in 2023
88% Increase in violations since 2019
$15.2M in federal penalties in 2024
12 States have weakened child labor protections since 2021
$2 Trillion in federal infrastructure spending with no child labor oversight
5,792+
Children found in documented violations in 2023
88%
Increase in violations since 2019
$15.2M
in federal penalties in 2024
12 States
have weakened child labor protections since 2021
$2 Trillion
in federal infrastructure spending with no child labor oversight
Figures from latest Department of Labor Report
21 Federal Enforcement Offices Face Closure
We Aim to Fight Child Labor Across All Industries
Kids Over Kapital cares for children affected by weakened enforcement and state protection roll backs. We're documenting child labor violations across every sector of the American economy while advocating for comprehensive federal contractor accountability.
21 Federal Enforcement Offices Face Closure
Fighting Child Labor Across All Industries
As enforcement weakens and state protections roll back, we're documenting child labor violations across every sector of the American economy while advocating for comprehensive federal contractor accountability.
We are nonpartisan and solution-focused.
The principles that drives us
Raising awareness about child labor exploitation across all industries while advocating for comprehensive federal accountability systems and stronger enforcement.
We are guided by child safety and protection.
We are nonpartisan and evidence-based.
We are transparent and accountable.
We are committed to justice and enforcement.
We are nonpartisan and solution-focused.
The principles that drives us
Raising awareness about child labor exploitation across all industries while advocating for comprehensive federal accountability systems and stronger enforcement.
Child labor violations affect over 5,800 children found working illegally in 2023 alone. We advocate for stronger enforcement, support families affected by violations, and work to close gaps in federal oversight of $2 trillion in infrastructure spending.
Our research draws from Department of Labor enforcement data, GAO reports, and documented case studies. Every statistic is sourced and verified. We track the 88% increase in violations since 2019 and analyze trends across all 50 states. We document both strengthening laws (14 states in 2024) and weakening laws (12 states since 2021)
All violation data, penalty amounts, and enforcement statistics are publicly sourced from federal agencies. We publish case study documentation, track legislative changes in real-time, and maintain a public database of corporate violations. Our methodology and data sources are available for independent verification
Child labor violations affect over 5,800 children found working illegally in 2023 alone. Federal penalties reached $15.2 million in 2024, an 89% increase from the previous year. We advocate for stronger enforcement, support families affected by violations, and work to close gaps in federal oversight of $2 trillion in infrastructure spending.
How you can help
Children in America Are Working in Dangerous Jobs
A Crisis Made Worse by Policy
While federal violations surge, states are legalizing previously prohibited work.
CURRENTLY ILLEGAL
Federal Violations Found
5,800 children employed illegally (2023)
688 minors in hazardous occupations
Children cleaning slaughterhouse equipment
Kids working overnight shifts during school
Multiple chemical burn injuries
NOW BEING LEGALIZED
State Law Changes
Iowa: 14-year-olds in meatpacking plants
Arkansas: No work permit requirements
16 states weakening protections
Extended work hours during school year
Reduced age verification requirements
