The Speaker of Parliament has certified the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children (Amendment) Bill, bringing the amendment into force as law.
Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne endorsed the certificate on 8 September 2026.
The Bill had been passed by Parliament on 20 August.
Fines increased
The amendment updates penalties under the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act No. 47 of 1956.
The maximum fine for offences under the Act has been increased from:
Rs.10,000 → Rs.100,000
The existing Act prohibits the employment of children below 16 years of age.
The amendment is intended to bring penalties more closely into line with present economic conditions.
Now in force
Unlike a Bill merely approved by Cabinet or presented to Parliament, this amendment has received the Speaker's certification.
It therefore comes into force as the:
Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children (Amendment) Act No. 21 of 2026