LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor David A. Paterson to
proclaim March 26, 2009, as Child Labor Awareness Day in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, The evils of abusive child labor practices continue to exist in
many countries where children work under untenable conditions in the
garment, agriculture, and mining industries; and
WHEREAS, These children are deprived of the opportunity to receive an
education, may start to work as early as the age of four, and are paid
pennies on the dollar; and
WHEREAS, Many children worldwide are trapped in life-threatening work-
ing conditions; and
WHEREAS, The problems associated with child labor are not limited to
the Third World; there are thousands of sweatshops within the United
States that use child labor in an abusive and unlawful manner; and
WHEREAS, The New York State Legislature commends those organizations
throughout the State which take labor standards into consideration when
evaluating bids for school apparel and other goods; and
WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body and this great
Empire State to reaffirm their worthy commitment by addressing this
complex and compelling problem and encouraging increased awareness and
renewed efforts to eliminate abusive child labor practices in our socie-
ty; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor David A. Paterson to proclaim March 26, 2009, as
Child Labor Awareness Day in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New
York.