New York State Representative Grace Meng has recently introduced a bill that would serve in the interests of models aged 16 and under. The Child Performers Protection Act of 2015 would extend federal workplace safety regulations to child performers, including models, whether categorized as employees or independent contractors.
In support of Meng’s bill, Sara Ziff, founder of The Model Alliance stated:
“Most models begin their careers as children. Many of them are faced with pressures that include long working hours for no monetary pay, difficulty recouping monies owed, and sexual demands. No one should have to deal with these abuses, let alone vulnerable children. These experiences in their formative years may have long-lasting repercussions on their health, well being, and careers. This legislation would protect child performers from documented abuses in several industries.”
The bill could not have come at a better moment as baby-faced models are once again trending in the fashion world. Fourteen-year-old model, Sofia Mechetner, opened Raf Simons’ last runway show for Dior, Lily-Rose Depp, 16, was recently named the face of Chanel Eyewear, and Cindy Crawford’s 13-year-old, Kaia Gerber was featured in the September issue of CR Fashion Book.
photo courtesy of Chanel
