Michigan children would no longer need a work permit to get a job under a bill passed in the state House of Representatives Wednesday.
Under the current system, schools issue work permits before kids can start working. Starting in early October, the state will start overseeing that work permitting process.
But the legislation that passed the House this week would undo that. Instead of requiring a work permit, the bill would have employers verify a minor’s age before hiring them.
Bill sponsor Mike Hoadley (R-Au Gres) said both school- and state-issued work permits have created too much red tape for teens and the employers who rely on their labor.
“By removing the mandatory permit process, House Bill 5727 reduces administrative burdens on families, schools, and small businesses while preserving all core protections for minors,” Hoadley said during a floor speech on Tuesday.
Aside from getting rid of work permits, the bill would expand opportunities for kids under 16 to work. Changes include eight-hour-per-day limits on minors working when school isn’t in session, and a cap of either 18 work hours per week or a combination of 40 weekly work and school hours when school is in session.
The legislation would also create a waiver that would allow children to work overnight shifts and under conditions that are beyond normal health and safety standards if “it is in the best interests of the minor and the community.”
House Democrats all voted against the package. State...
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