Advocacy News – May 23, 2024
On Thursday, May 23, the House Labor Committee heard testimony on legislation (HB 5594) to overhaul 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 require LEO to create and maintain a free, online employment registration system for teens, their parent or guardians and employers. Employers hiring teens would have to submit the following information to the registration system (in addition to other information required by LEO): business name, contact info, minor’s name and contact info, address of the worksite, etc. LEO would be required to approve a minor’s work permit within 15 days – or the teen could immediately begin work.
Why it matters: The Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget estimates that approximately 205,000 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.
What we’re saying: 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 have concerns about the practical implications of the legislation, including how it would work in the real world and impact students and businesses looking for work/employees. We will be working with the bill sponsor and LEO in the coming weeks to determine how/if the bill can be amended to help break down barriers to students seeking valuable work experience and the opportunity to earn money. As written, it seems the bill will only add additional red tape and barriers to entry.
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.