When it comes to pursuing a career in acting, it’s important for parents to understand and comply with child labor laws to ensure the safety and well-being of their child. In Los Angeles, where auditions are plentiful and opportunities abound, navigating these laws is essential for young actors and their families.
At The Playground Acting Conservatory, we’re here to provide parents with the information and resources they need to navigate child labor laws and support their child’s acting journey.
What Are Child Labor Laws?: Ensuring Protection for Young Performers
Child labor laws are designed to protect the rights and welfare of minors in the workplace, including the entertainment industry. These laws establish guidelines and regulations regarding the hours, working conditions, and treatment of child actors, ensuring they are not exploited or subjected to unsafe working conditions. In Los Angeles, child labor laws are enforced by the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) and the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR).
Work Permits: Obtaining Legal Authorization for Employment
In order for a child actor to work in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles, they must obtain a work permit from the California DLSE. This permit serves as legal authorization for the child to work and is required for any paid employment, including auditions, rehearsals, and performances. Parents are responsible for applying for and obtaining work permits on behalf of their child, and must provide documentation such as proof of age, school attendance, and medical clearance.
Studio Teachers: Ensuring Education and Supervision on Set
Under California law, child actors are required to have a studio teacher present on set to oversee their education and ensure their well-being. Studio teachers are certified educators who provide academic instruction to child actors during breaks in filming and ensure they receive a proper education in accordance with state requirements. Parents are responsible for hiring and compensating studio teachers for their child’s time on set, and must ensure their child’s academic needs are met while pursuing their acting career.
Working Hours and Rest Breaks: Prioritizing Health and Safety
Child labor laws in California establish limitations on the hours and working conditions for young performers to prioritize their health and safety. These laws stipulate the maximum number of hours a child can work per day and per week, as well as mandatory rest breaks and meal periods. Parents must ensure their child’s schedule complies with these regulations and advocate for their child’s well-being on set.
Coogan Accounts: Protecting Your Child’s Earnings
The Coogan Act, also known as the California Child Actor’s Bill, requires a portion of a child actor’s earnings to be set aside in a trust account known as a Coogan account. This account is designed to protect the child’s earnings and ensure they are used for their benefit, such as education, housing, and future expenses. Parents are responsible for establishing and managing their child’s Coogan account, and must ensure compliance with state regulations regarding account management and reporting.
Child Performer Trust Fund: Providing Additional Financial Protection
In addition to Coogan accounts, California law requires employers to contribute a percentage of a child actor’s earnings to a Child Performer Trust Fund (CPTF). This fund provides additional financial protection for child actors and ensures their earnings are safeguarded for their benefit. Parents are responsible for monitoring contributions to the CPTF and ensuring their child receives the full amount of earnings owed to them under state law.
Advocating for Your Child’s Rights
Navigating child labor laws in Los Angeles can seem daunting, but with the right information and support, parents can ensure their child’s safety, well-being, and success in the entertainment industry. At The Playground Acting Conservatory, we’re committed to providing parents with the resources and guidance they need to navigate child labor laws and support their child’s acting journey. With proper planning, advocacy, and compliance with state regulations, parents can help their child pursue their dreams while protecting their rights and welfare as young performers. Contact us to learn more.
