Phipps, William

Wage and Hour Division Department of Labor Washington, DC 20510 Nov. 2, 2011 Dear sir/madam, As a small family farmer coming from a long line of farmers in the State of Maryland, I am extremely concerned about the proposed rule (RIN 1235-AA06) regarding Child Labor Regulations on farms. The provisions in this proposal tend to indicate a total lack of awareness of how farm children help their families to produce the food and fiber we need to survive as an agricultural operation and as a society. Like my father and grandfather before me I grew up working on the farm doing various chores as soon as I was able to walk. The experiences I gained from working alongside my family was invaluable and gave me a stong work ethic to be a solid citizen of my county, state and nation. Local youth helping on farms has long been a tradition and a good way to build character, self-reliance and work ethic. Our farm families look out for the best interest of their children and local youth. Provisions of this proposal will only increase the chance that young people will never have the farm experience I and others have cherished. Most farms in the US are owned by families but, because of certain tax and liability concerns, can be incorporated or formed as partnerships or other legal entities. This proposed rule therefore is biased to those family farms who chose certain legal status changes. I would ask that you withdrawal this rule and allow our farmers the opportunity to share the benefits of hard-earned labor with future generations. Sincerely, William Phipps Sunderland, MD