“Controversial Labor Rule Withdrawn”

The Department of Labor has withdrawn the proposed rule dealing with children under the age of 16 who work in agricultural vocations. A statement released Thursday evening said the Obama Administration is committed to promoting family farmers and respecting the rural way of life. It went on to say the Administration is committed to listening and responding to what Americans across the country have to say about proposed rules and regulations. The decision was a response to thousands of comments expressing concerns about the effect of the proposed rules on small family-owned farms. According to the statement – this regulation will not be pursued for the duration of the Obama administration. Instead – USDA and the Department of Labor will work with rural stakeholders – like the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Farmers Union, FFA and 4-H to develop an educational program to reduce accidents to young workers and promote safer agricultural working practices.