The bill amends the Youth Employment Standards Act to enhance protections for minors in the workforce. It specifies that minors must not be employed in occupations that are hazardous or injurious to their health and well-being, and it clarifies the minimum age for employment as 14 years, with certain exceptions for younger minors in specific roles such as athletic referees, golf caddies, and in farming operations. The bill also introduces new language regarding the enforcement of the act, granting the director the authority to inspect workplaces and access relevant records, while prohibiting employers from retaliating against minors who exercise their rights under the act.

Additionally, the bill increases penalties for violations of the act, establishing a tiered system of misdemeanors and felonies based on the number of offenses. For first offenses, penalties include a misdemeanor with fines up to $5,000, while subsequent offenses can lead to felony charges with fines up to $50,000 and imprisonment. The bill also stipulates that if a minor is killed or suffers great bodily harm while working, the employer or their agent may face severe felony charges with significant fines and imprisonment terms. Overall, the amendments aim to strengthen the legal framework protecting minors in the workforce and ensure compliance with safety standards.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 409.103