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May 27, 2011

Gov. to sign bill easing teen labor laws

Gov. Paul LePage is expected to sign a bill that loosens restrictions on teen labor laws, bringing Maine law more in line with other states.

The bill increases the number of weekly hours 16- and 17-year-olds can work from 20 to 24, and increases the number of daily hours from four to six, according to Capitol News Service. However, lawmakers nixed extending the time limit minors can work on a school night from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m., instead making it 10:15 p.m. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Debra Plowman, R-Hampden, garnered much debate in the House and Senate. Lawmakers in support of the measure said it puts Maine more in line with the regulations of other states and allows students to save more money, while opponents worried it would harm minors' educational success.

The measure takes effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns on June 15, according to the news service.

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