Bills would increase penalties and fines for illegally employing minors, unsafe working conditions
LANSING, Mich. (Oct. 16, 2024) — Today, the Senate Labor Committee passed a set of bills to strengthen Michigan’s child labor laws. The legislation, sponsored by Sens. Sylvia Santana (D-Detroit), Mary Cavanagh (Redford Twp.), and Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton), would increase penalties and fines for businesses found employing minors illegally or subjecting them to unsafe working conditions.
With a strong focus on child safety, the proposed package, made up of Senate Bills 963–965, also transfers the authority to issue work permits for minors from the Michigan Dept. of Education to the Michigan Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO).
“Protecting Michigan’s children and youth workers is our top priority while still offering them opportunities to earn a paycheck, gain employment experience and learn skills,” said Sen. Santana. “This legislation ensures we are taking the necessary steps to safeguard their rights and well-being in the workplace, reinforcing our commitment to the safety and future of Michigan’s young people.”
The bills require minors and employers to be registered with LEO. Potential employers must comply with the Youth Employment Standards Act (YESA) and obtain authorization from LEO before a minor begins working. LEO has the authority to grant exceptions to YESA, but parents will have the ability to object to any special conditions requested by the employer....
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