<p>“Been occurring in the border states for decades. (I guess the NYT only picks it up when it becomes a local issue. )”</p>
<p>Very true. Also, there is a lot of cultural pressure for these kids to start earning when they are 16. To tackle this challenge, their parents need to be persuaded that college is a better option for their kids than entering the labor force at 16 - an uphill climb in a lot of areas.</p>