11 Comments
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Josiah Wearin's avatar

Important information. Hope our legislators read this!!

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John Schmidt's avatar

Terrific column! As one who grew up on a farm, I am very cognizant of the risks farm children face from both machines and livestock.

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Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Thanks, John! Mechanization has reduced back-breaking labor, but resulted in new hazards. And, yes, livestock also are the source of many injuries!

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Kathi Zimpleman's avatar

Thank you, Cheryl. This is a very important discussion about the exploitation of our children.

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Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Thanks, Kathi. I'm glad that you share my concern!

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Wini Moranville's avatar

Great article. I can’t imagine letting kids work with dangerous machinery. Do you have thoughts on restaurant industry work? I worked in restaurants from the age of 14 to 24, but they were mostly well managed places that took care of the kids. I wonder what the worst issues are, provided laws are followed.

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Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Thanks, Wini. Great question. In fast food places today, I think deep fat fryers are an issue. I will check a little more. But allowing kids to work longer hours into evening, and keeping them from taking part in extracurricular activities that are part of childhood are detriments to their education and development as young adults.

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Josiah Wearin's avatar

Cheryl— What station is Channel 8?

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Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Sorry, Josiah. It is KCCI

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Char's avatar

KCCI Des Moines

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Cheryl Tevis's avatar

Thanks, Char!

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