With the labor shortage, you may have started considering expanding your applicant pool to groups of potential employees you had not previously considered, like minors. Even if you have not yet considered hiring minors, you may be tempted to do so given the upcoming holiday season. However, you must take special care in employing minor employees, as both federal and state laws impose special rules on hiring employees under 18. Tennessee employers who hire minors must comply with both the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Tennessee’s Child Labor Act, which places restrictions on the hiring and employment of minors, prohibit minors from working in certain occupations, restrict the hours minors may work, and impose additional duties on employers. This Insight provides employers with a comprehensive series of Frequently Asked Questions to guide you through the process.

Who Are Considered “Minors” in Tennessee?

Tennessee’s Act applies broadly to any individual under the age of 18. It generally prohibits children under the age of 14 from being employed in “any gainful occupation.” However, there are certain exceptions based on the type of work performed and the status of the minor.

Tennessee law does not apply to minors employed in agricultural work, the distribution or sale of newspapers, errand or delivery work (by foot, bicycle, or public transportation), or as a musician or entertainer, among others. Additionally, Tennessee’s child labor law exempts any minor who:...

Read Full Story: https://news.google.com/__i/rss/rd/articles/CBMiUWh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmpkc3VwcmEuY...