Hammer v. Dagenhart

Although children were exploited as a source of cheap labor at the beginning of the century when they worked long hours and received low wages, today federal and state laws protect children or minors under 18 years old among others from such "sweat shop" conditions. In addition, these laws keep children safe from exposure to hazardous substances and conditions and children are barred from holding certain jobs even if they have parental consent.

Various state and federal regulations such as the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 and the Child Labor Act of 1916 prohibit or restrict the employment of children in various occupations, especially those with potentially dangerous conditions including ones involving toxic substances and heavy machinery. One state, for example, considers the operation of a log-loading machine too dangerous for minors. Furthermore, other regulations cover the employment of children in certain occupations, under certain conditions, after specific hours, and when school is in session.