The bill aims to amend the working conditions and hours for sixteen- and seventeen-year-olds in Washington State, specifically addressing the disparities between students enrolled in bona fide college programs and those in career and technical education programs. Currently, while students in college programs can work the same number of hours during school weeks as they do during nonschool weeks, those in career and technical education programs do not have the same flexibility. The legislature recognizes the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to gain on-the-job experience, particularly for those in career-focused programs.

To address this issue, the bill directs the Department of Labor and Industries to revise existing rules to allow both groups of students to work the same number of hours during the school year as they are permitted during school vacations or holidays. The new legal language specifies that minors enrolled in either a bona fide college program or an approved career and technical education program can work the same hours, thereby promoting fairness and supporting students' career development. The bill also clarifies the definition of a "career and technical education program" as one that is approved by the office of the superintendent of public instruction or the minor's school district.