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Can you hire minors in Massachusetts?

On Behalf of | Oct 30, 2024 | Employment Law |

Hiring young employees can be an effective way to bring energy and enthusiasm into your business. However, business owners must know the rules before welcoming minors into their teams.

In this blog, we’ll explore what you need to know about hiring minors in Massachusetts. After reading, you can make informed decisions and ensure your business stays on the right side of the law.

What you need to know

In Massachusetts, hiring minors requires adhering to specific legal requirements to ensure compliance with child labor laws. While older teens can look for jobs in the state, minors under 14 are generally not allowed to work. More importantly, young applicants who are no longer students are still subject to the same child labor laws as those who are in school.

One of the primary steps is obtaining a work permit for any teen under 18 years old. They need the permit when they start a new job. The work permit application requires detailed information, including the employer’s name, work address and job description. This process ensures that the employment is suitable and safe for the minor.

The superintendent of schools where the applicant lives must approve the permit. Teens from outside Massachusetts looking for work in the state must contact the superintendent of the school district where they will be working to secure the document.

Each superintendent has the authority to determine the process for issuing work permits within their district. This is why out-of-state applicants must contact the appropriate school district for guidance.

Working with young talent

Understanding and adhering to the state’s regulations can help your business provide valuable work opportunities while ensuring a safe and compliant work environment. Just remember to stay informed about the laws regarding work permits, hours and job restrictions to avoid legal issues.