Oppressive child labor is generally defined as the employment of children under the age of 16, except for children between 14 and 16 years of age working under non hazardous conditions that do not interfere with their schooling, health, or well-being. The minimum age for employment in hazardous occupations is 18. Children of any age may, however, be employed as theatrical performers and may work in agriculture outside school hours.
Enforcement is the responsibility of the Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor.