LANSING, Mich – In a move aimed at bolstering protections for young workers, Michigan lawmakers have introduced House Bill No. 5594, seeking to amend the state’s Youth Employment Standards Act. The bill, proposed by Representatives Skaggs, Paiz, and Scott and referred to the Committee on Labor, aims to modernize regulations surrounding the employment of minors.

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If passed, the bill would bring several changes to the existing law, including updates to sections related to work permits, employer registration, and enforcement measures. One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a registration system, accessible online, which would require both minors and their employers to register with the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity before commencing employment.

Under the proposed amendments, minors seeking employment would need to be registered with the department, ensuring that they meet certain criteria before being hired. Additionally, employers would be required to provide detailed information about the nature of the work, working hours, and wages, further safeguarding the rights of young workers.

The bill also empowers the director of the department to oversee the approval of minor employment, ensuring compliance with the law. Moreover, it outlines procedures for issuing and revoking work permits, with a focus on maintaining standards of safety and well-being for minors in the workplace.

Furthermore, the legislation introduces provisions for deviations from established standards, allowing for flexibility in certain circumstances while still prioritizing the best interests of the minor and the community.