Advocacy News – Jan. 20, 2025
What’s new: Governor Whitmer has signed legislation overhauling how youth work permits are issued, moving the process from local school districts and nonpublic schools to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). Under the proposal, a minor would have to register with LEO before starting work and the business would need to be authorized. After termination of employment, the employer would have to directly notify LEO.
- The legislation would take effect Oct. 1, 2026, 18 months after the bill’s effective date.
Why it matters: The Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget estimates that approximately 247,000 teens were employed in Michigan in the summer of 2023. Teen workers are crucial to the success of industries that are highly seasonal in nature and require larger staff levels during the summer months (e.g., the accommodation and food services, retail, arts and entertainment, and recreation sectors). Without readily available teen employees, many of these industries would struggle.
Our take: While proponents say they are looking to “streamline” the current system (which requires schools to approve work permit) and improve compliance with youth labor laws, we voiced concerns about adding red tape and barriers to entry for teen workers and employing businesses.
Go deeper: Read our letter to the committee and the bill and/or bill analysis. Businesses employing teen workers should review their legal and compliance obligations regarding hours, breaks and supervision in advance of the 2026 effective date.