Great Lakes Wire

With summer approaching, Michigan employers planning to hire minors should be mindful of state regulations to ensure compliance. The employment of individuals under 18 in Michigan is regulated by the Youth Employment Standards Act, requiring work permits even during school vacations. The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) handles these regulations concerning minors.

Work permits for minors are necessary and obtainable through local school officials depending on the district. The different forms available are CA-6 for those under 16 and CA-7 for those between 16 and 17. Employers need to keep completed and signed work permits at their place of employment until the minor leaves the job, after which the permit must be returned to the issuing officer.

Employers are prohibited from engaging minors in hazardous work. In general, the lowest age for employment is 14, though exceptions exist, such as young referees for children's sports or caddies for golfers as young as 11. Specific restrictions also apply to working hours and conditions for those under 16 and for those between 16 and 17. Minors under 16 are limited to a maximum of six working days and a 48-hour work week. They can work until 9 pm, while those over 16 may work until 10:30 pm on weekdays and 11:30 pm on weekends or school vacations.

Employers are required to provide a 30-minute break if a minor works more than five continuous hours. Additionally, certain employment conditions, such as working in places where alcohol is sold, have stricter age requirements.

In specific cases, exemptions might apply. These include minors who have completed high school or its equivalency, and legally emancipated minors. Businesses must display a Youth Employment Standards poster, outlining these and other regulations.

Employers must also maintain several records, including work agreements, GED certificates, or high school completion documents, alongside documentation of working hours and breaks.

For further details, employers can visit the Labor and Economic Opportunity website or contact the Wage and Hour program directly.

"By Michael Burns, courtesy of SBAM-approved partner, ASE."