U.S. Labor Department finds Iowa's child labor law violates federal law

(Undated) -- A review by the U.S. Department of Labor finds Iowa's child labor bill contradicts federal law.

In a letter, the department said if the proposal is signed into law, the bill "may lead Iowa employers to violate federal child labor regulations."

The bill would allow 14- and 15-year-olds to work longer hours than federal law permits and lets minors work in environments contradictory to federal law.

The federal labor department noted, "states cannot nullify federal requirements by enacting less protective standards."

Governor Kim Reynolds has until June 2 to sign or veto the bill.