Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday signed a bill that will loosen work restrictions for 16- and 17-year-old youths.

Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 49 into law on Friday, easing regulations on the work hours of 16- and 17-year-olds in Florida. The law, which will take effect July 1, allows these teens to work more than eight hours on Sundays and holidays, and gives parents, guardians, or school superintendents the ability to waive the 30-hour workweek limit during school sessions. It also mandates a 30-minute meal break for teens working eight or more hours in a day.

While supporters, including the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and the National Federation of Independent Business-Florida, argue the bill offers flexibility for businesses and parents, critics, such as Rep. Anna Eskamani (D-Orlando), raise concerns about exploitation and risks, particularly in service jobs with high rates of harassment.

The bill, which passed 76-33 in the House and 27-11 in the Senate, faced heavy debate. Earlier proposals aimed at loosening restrictions were scaled back in the final version signed by DeSantis. The law follows the 1986 regulations designed to address child labor violations, but advocates say it provides a more modern approach to youth employment.

Additionally, DeSantis signed other bills, including HB 533, requiring DNA samples from state prison inmates, and SB 1746, which revises a controversial 2023 law restricting public-employee unions.