When 12-year-old Danny Doherty started selling homemade ice cream in Norwood, Massachusetts, he wasn’t trying to disrupt the local economy — he was raising money for his brother’s hockey team. Yet his stand was shut down by officials for violating state food regulations.
This highlights how outdated regulations can stifle young entrepreneurs. Kids like Danny deserve the chance to explore entrepreneurship without excessive government oversight. Instead of being punished, he should have been encouraged for his initiative.
Danny Doherty, 12, of Norwood, Mass., stands for a photograph Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024, in front of his home in Norwood, while holding a letter from the Town of Norwood Board of Health advising his family that they may not sell homemade ice cream at an ice cream stand near their home. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
In Utah, we’ve taken steps to support youth entrepreneurship. Earlier this year, we helped pass Senate Bill 47, expanding our 2017 “lemonade stand law.” This law allows kids under 19 to run occasional businesses without the need for permits or facing government interference. It empowers young people to gain real-world experience without bureaucratic hurdles.
Other states should follow Utah’s lead. Stories like Danny’s show how well-intentioned rules can hinder learning, growth, and community involvement. Applying the same regulations to a child’s stand as to a full-fledged business misses the point of fostering entrepreneurial skills early in life.
In this Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024 photo provided by Nancy Doherty, Ben Doherty, of Braintree, Mass., left, and his cousin Danny Doherty, 12, of Norwood, Mass., right, sit at a homemade ice cream stand near Danny’s home in Norwood. (Nancy Doherty via AP)
By giving kids the freedom to experiment, we teach them responsibility, hard work, and customer service — skills that will benefit them well into adulthood. A more robust “lemonade stand law” would help young entrepreneurs like Danny thrive, contribute to their communities, and develop critical life skills.
It’s time for Massachusetts and other states to follow Utah’s example and pass sensible laws that protect youth-run businesses from overregulation.
Director of Communications